Case Study: Affordable Green Housing at Isla Villa, Capitol Hill, Saipan

Introduction:

In the heart of Capitol Hill, a bustling settlement on the picturesque island of Saipan in the Northern Mariana Islands, a remarkable affordable housing project called Isla Villa is transforming the landscape. With a population of just over 50,000, Capitol Hill has been the Northern Mariana Islands' seat of government since 1962. The construction of Isla Villa commenced on February 16, 2018, with a groundbreaking ceremony graced by Governor Ralph Torres, Isla Villa Partners LLC, Pacific Rim Land Development LLC, and Northern Marianas Housing Corp.

Green-Focused Affordable Housing in Two Phases:

Isla Villa stands as a testament to sustainable urban living and addresses the critical need for affordable housing. The project is developed in two phases, with Phase 1 being a remarkable achievement in green housing on Capitol Hill. Phase 1 involved the construction of two three-story multi-family apartment buildings connected by a pedestrian bridge, creating a cohesive community of twenty-seven units.

These thoughtfully designed units have been tailored to accommodate large families without imposing the burden of high utility costs. Pacific Solar & Photovoltaics played a pivotal role in overseeing the installation of a Solar Hot Water System manufactured by SunEarth. The solar array, comprising 20 collectors, provides preheated water to the units year-round. This not only reduces energy consumption but also contributes to a sustainable and green housing solution.

Apart from the spacious units and high-level finishes, Isla Villa features a community center for programs and services, multiple recreational areas with playground equipment, and ample open spaces for shared green areas. Its strategic location within walking distance of most government offices in the Commonwealth enhances accessibility and convenience for residents.

Phase Two: Typhoon-Resilient Green Housing:

The success of Phase 1 has paved the way for an even more ambitious Phase 2. Pacific Rim Land Development, the driving force behind Isla Villa, is committed to providing quality housing solutions to address the housing shortage in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands. Phase 2, located just a stone's throw away, is set to feature four new buildings and aims to exceed 100 units.

Building on the experience of the first phase, Isla Villa remains dedicated to providing not just temporary relief from housing needs but high-quality, green, and typhoon-resilient homes. The newly constructed property features typhoon shutters and incorporates design elements that ensure the safety of residents in case of future typhoons.

Keith Stewart, President of Pacific Rim Land Development, emphasized the enduring commitment to housing solutions, saying, "It's not just getting a temporary relief in the housing need, but having quality housing where the applicants will feel safe, in case another strong typhoon comes." Isla Villa represents a vision for sustainable, long-term housing that enhances the quality of life for its residents while contributing to a greener and more resilient future.

Project Overview:

• Project Name: Isla Villa
• Location: Capitol Hill, Saipan
• Installation Date: April 2019
• Installer: Pacific Solar & Photovoltaics

In Conclusion:

Isla Villa in Capitol Hill, Saipan, embodies the ideals of affordable and green-focused housing while embracing sustainability and resilience. This case study highlights the potential for transformative green housing solutions in the heart of Saipan, with a focus on accessibility, energy efficiency, and disaster preparedness. Isla Villa represents a commendable commitment to enhancing the quality of life for residents and addressing the essential need for affordable, green, and resilient housing.