New Homes in Gig Harbor North: What's Known?

The Future of Housing in Gig Harbor

Gig Harbor, a city that has nearly quadrupled its population from 1991 to 2022, is facing an ongoing challenge: meeting the demand for more housing. While growth has slowed in recent years, the need for additional housing remains pressing. Concerns about potential developments have sparked discussions on local community forums, with many residents questioning whether infrastructure can support these projects.

Mayor Mary Barber addressed these concerns during a city council meeting on October 13. She emphasized that while the city cannot prohibit growth due to constitutional and property rights considerations, it can manage it thoughtfully under the Growth Management Act. This includes guiding development, investing in infrastructure, and preserving the city's character and natural beauty.

Proposed Developments

Several projects are currently under review by the city, including those in Gig Harbor North and just outside city limits. Here’s a closer look at some of the confirmed proposals:

Gig Harbor North Annex

In September, a preliminary short plat application was submitted by the Rush Companies to subdivide land from 11303 to 11311 Canterwood Blvd. N. The proposal includes two parcels for future development and three tracts for environmental preservation.

Lot 1, the larger northern parcel, is expected to feature multifamily apartments with density targets of 12 to 32 units per acre. Lot 2, the smaller eastern parcel, could be used for medical offices or senior living facilities, or potentially include additional residential units.

Eric Baker, the Community Development Director, noted that the subdivision process is still early and does not allow for immediate construction. Scott Walker, vice president of Rush Residential, mentioned that the site is being considered for various uses.

Summit Pointe (Burnham Heights)

A 56-unit single-family home community called Burnham Heights is set to launch this month. The project, named Summit Pointe in permit records, will be accessed from 112th Street South and include an internal private road. The area is zoned R-2, medium-density residential, and spans over 16 acres.

Baker explained that the developer is completing site improvements, such as roads, grading, and utilities. Once these are done, the project will move to final plat approval, which is largely an administrative process. Walker confirmed that construction is expected to start within the next 30 days.

Rosedale Plat

In 2022, a Texas-based company applied for a subdivision of 38 acres east of Gig Harbor High School. The initial proposal included 31 lots for single-family homes. However, there is potential for a different configuration if a new buyer acquires the property. The city encourages public input throughout the process.

Burnham Ridge Subdivision

A 20-lot single-family subdivision was applied for in 2021. The project is already permitted and approved, with grading and site preparation underway. Construction is expected to begin mid- to late next year.

Trailside Apartments

Rush has applied to build 120 apartment units at 5730 Baker Way Northwest. While details on the project are limited, Walker indicated that another employee would be better suited to provide further information.

Infrastructure and Community Input

Walker emphasized that Rush works closely with local jurisdictions and utility providers to ensure that infrastructure can support new developments. He noted that the community needs more affordable housing and that the company is addressing this critical need.

The city also allows for public input during the planning process, encouraging residents to get involved early. Baker highlighted that the city must follow established codes and regulations, making it difficult to deny projects that meet these criteria.

City Authority and Regional Influence

The city's role in managing growth begins with legislative decisions made by the city council, including residential density targets and development code updates. The state also sets housing requirements based on projected growth.

Baker explained that the city cannot simply reject projects that align with city codes. Instead, they can condition projects to address potential impacts. Additionally, the city serves as a service provider for the broader region, drawing people from outside the city for services like healthcare and retail.

An Interlocal Agreement with Pierce County is being developed to allow the city to enforce zoning on developments within the Urban Growth Area. This agreement could give the city more influence over nearby projects and enable them to collect impact fees.

Baker noted that the details of the agreement are still being finalized and may be discussed in 2026. The new city council members joining after the November election may find this issue particularly relevant.