A housing boom in downtown Seattle is providing an economic boost in Klamath Falls…
49 of these apartment units are being built by ‘One Build’ just across from the Klamath Falls Airport.
John Mick of One Build explains…
“The project that we have here is going to ultimately be a 7 1/2 story building in downtown Seattle.”
The finished units, complete with appliances, are then stacked like building blocks…
Mick notes that can save a lot of time over standard construction, and cause fewer delays and less congestion in a downtown metro area…
“From a time to completion, we can cut months off of a project.”
The workers say the wood frame apartments are a blend of traditional carpentry, and manufacturing.
Panel Shop worker Jon Putman commented on the pride the employees take in their work…
“And when you do see the final product out there, you do say, ‘Wow – I did build something’ – It’s not a manufactured home.”
One build employs about 50 people in Klamath Falls, and also provides additional work for local subcontractors.
One Build’s John Mick adds that success of the project in Seattle could translate to even more jobs…
“You get a lot of notoriety, a lot of recognition and then you have more customers coming to you looking to do the same thing.”
We asked Jon Putman if this is the wave of the housing future…
“Honestly, I think it is.”
Workers plan to begin installing the apartments in late September.
That installation is expected to take about two weekends.
Applications are already being taken for the new apartments.
Rent will range from about $1200 a month for a small studio, to $2000 a month for a 700 square foot loft.
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