Bastyr University officials held a groundbreaking in Kenmore May 8 for 11, two-story student housing units to be built on the northern edge of the school property.

The housing will consist of what officials described as cottage-style buildings designed to minimize impacts on the environment and fit into the campus’ natural setting.

Despite Bastyr’s assertions on the environmentally friendly nature of the work, in January, the dormitory project did receive formal opposition from local residents who fear the work will, in fact, have a negative impact on the surrounding area. During roughly eight hours of testimony in front of a city hearing examiner, opponents argued water run-off from the project would reach creeks and waterways in St. Edward State Park, adding to flooding problems and polluting nearby wetlands.

The city of Kenmore already had completed its own environmental study, concluding the project would not create a significant environmental impact. Eventually, the hearing examiner ruled in favor of the city and Bastyr.

Bastyr advertises the new buildings will be Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certified. They will hold up to 132 students with 12 individual rooms in each cottage. The residences will be connected by a series of garden paths, courtyards and outdoor living spaces. Planned enhancements include the planting of native species to provide greater wildlife habitat.