Capitol Hills cohousing pioneers are ready to move in on 12th Ave

Capitol Hill Urban Cohousing (CHUC) members are ready to move into their new building on 12th Ave after years of planning and development that began in 2014. Unlike traditional cooperatives, CHUC residents are their own developers, which helps keep costs low and fosters community ownership. Co-founder Mike Mariano noted that financing such a project poses unique challenges, but the vision of long-term stability and communal support drives their efforts. The community includes nine families—17 adults and 10 children—who have participated in the process since 2010. Doug Erickson, a CHUC member, shared how his son has already formed bonds with other children, highlighting the community's familial atmosphere.

Although the units are at market rates, there is optimism that they will not escalate significantly over time. A preview of the building will take place during National Cohousing Open House day on Saturday, providing insights into their innovative living arrangement. Mariano aims for residents to start moving in by mid-May, despite some delays affecting logistics for families.