WELCH — McDowell County officials are pursuing a 23-acre “green build” housing development that could utilize solar or wind energy.
Members of the SAFE/SHED Board of Directors recently unveiled plans for the proposed “Green Mountain View Acres” housing development on Tom’s Mountain in Welch. The 23 acres of land were donated to SAFE for the green housing development by the McDowell County Commission, Stop Abusive Family Environments Director Sharon Walden said.
“It’s in the early stages, but we really thought now was the time to go for it,” she said.
Walden said a temporary model green house will be constructed at the site first to determine costs and suitability for wind and solar energy.
Walden said the original plans for the project called for the development of 23 homes. However, since the property has now been annexed into the city limits of Welch, the project has been expanded to 40 homes. The city also will provide water and septic service for the development.
Walden said SHED, or SAFE Housing and Economic Development Inc., recently met with a Christiansburg, Va. architect and discussed a “green build” design for the project. Because of the location, Walden said officials believe there could be a possible use of solar or wind energy for the homes.
“With the property located up near Mount View (High School) near Tom’s Mountain, it could certainly utilize solar or wind,” Walden said. “We really want it to be as green as we can. There is much money coming down now on building green. I just think now is the time.”
Because SHED is hoping to pursue a green building approach for the project, and because the 23 acres of land are located near Mount View High School, officials chose the name “Green Mountain View Acres” for the project.
Walden said the project is still in the early stages of development. Walden said Welch Mayor Martha Moore is committed to the development and is working with SHED to secure the necessary funding for water and sewer lines to the property.
“We are excited about the plans for this project that will address housing needs for McDowell County in the future,” board president Carol Carter said in a press release about the project.
Walden said plans continue for the design and construction of the housing project, which will be a mixed income project with a combination of single family and townhouses.
