Breaking Ground, Building Dreams: DESC's Burbridge Place Unveils Permanent Supportive Housing

Downtown Emergency Service Center (DESC) initiated the development of a groundbreaking Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH) project through an innovative and sustainable approach. The organization has built a 124-unit apartment complex at 8610 Aurora Avenue North in Seattle. This project marks the global debut of a PSH building utilizing a patented panelized construction method. The structure incorporates cutting-edge features such as rooftop solar panels, waste heat recovery systems, highly efficient air conditioning, and integrated technologies similar to those found in "smart home" designs.

The mechanical room and mechanical and plumbing systems were designed, fabricated, and installed by UMC, playing a pivotal role in achieving exceptional energy efficiency. Through a sophisticated heat exchanger, heat is recaptured from the hot water before being discharged into the sewer. This reclaimed heat is then repurposed for both domestic hot water and heating the building through radiant heat, reducing energy usage for thermal comfort.

UMC’s Building Automation group alongside our engineering team created a robust controls system that manages the central plant. This system monitors the overall water flow through the building and allows the equipment to achieve maximum efficiency. Under full building load, the heat extracted from the tenant's grey water is enough to provide heat to the building, while an electric boiler is on standby to provide supplemental heat as needed.

The affordable housing facility offers round-the-clock supportive services and communal areas for its residents, all of whom are single adults with disabilities and a history of long-term homelessness. DESC will retain ownership and operation of the building once it is finished. Prospective tenants must meet eligibility criteria, earning less than 30% of the Area Median Income (AMI), with DESC tenants typically earning around 15% of AMI. Rent for eligible tenants is set at 30% of their income.

We are proud to have been on the team alongside Absher Construction Company, Domatic, and D&S Electrical Contractors. Our collective dedication to DESC’s mission and vision for the Burbridge Place project will help 124 adults who have long experienced homelessness have homes and receive the support and resources they need to thrive!