City of Leavenworth expands ADU options, advances parking garage project

Leavenworth City Council approved a professional services agreement with ARC Architects for the initial phase of a parking garage project during its Aug. 12 meeting. The project aims to add a minimum of 200 covered parking stalls and has an estimated construction cost exceeding $30 million. The contract with ARC Architects allocates nearly $260,000 for site selection analysis and community engagement. The council also amended regulations for accessory dwelling units (ADUs), allowing two units per lot, each up to 1,200 square feet.

This change reduces off-street parking requirements to one space per unit, with possible waivers for units near major transit stops. Only one public comment was received, suggesting a smaller size limit for a second ADU. The council further updated its water and sewer municipal code, clarifying billing procedures and allowing utility charge waivers for affordable housing. These changes reflect the city's ongoing efforts to address housing and parking needs amid increasing demand.