136 Ballard units move closer to MUP

The planned redevelopment of the Mac’s Upholstery corner in Ballard, at 5011 15th Ave. N.W., has moved a little closer to its master use permit. The city on Monday issued a SEPA determination of non-significance for the project, which clears an important late hurdle to securing a master user permit.

The planned five-story, 136-unit project, designed by Hybrid Architecture, passed through design review early this year. The mostly congregate apartment project, dubbed Ponte, is being developed by Gary Mulhair. An LLC related to his Calhoun Property Management acquired the site three years ago for almost $2.2 million. The building will operate under the aPodment brand.

The developer will also apparently build the project. The team also includes Davido, civil engineer; Ken Large Landscape Architect; Geotech Consultants; and Swenson Say Faget, structural engineer.

Final permits haven’t yet been issued, and no application for a demolition permits has been made.

The project includes no parking, but there will be 114 bike stalls. Individual units will run from around 130 to 190 square feet. All have private bathrooms. Kitchens and amenities will be shared. Four private live/work units will be larger.

Total project size is listed at 32,382 square feet. Planning for Ponte began well before the Mandatory Housing Affordability upzone in Ballard last year. The project is now using 1511 N.W. 51st St. as its new address.