Island Workforce Housing Announces 2026 Availability - February 23, 2026

Beginning June 1st, Island Workforce Housing (IWH) will provide new housing for members of the island workforce with the completion of three new buildings at Thurlow’s Way on Cemetery Road in Stonington.  The apartments will be available to households with at least one member working full-time in Stonington or Deer Isle and earning a moderate income.

The 1- and 2-bedroom apartments will be within walking distance of downtown Stonington and come fully equipped with new appliances and electric heat pumps that will both heat and cool 12 well-insulated, energy-efficient apartments.  Rents will range from $750 to $1,525 per month, based on the size of the apartment and the household’s income, factoring in the household size.   

“Our goal is to provide affordable housing at no more than 30 – 35% of a household’s income,” said Pam Dewell, Executive Director of the organization.  Units will be available to households earning between 80% and 140% of the area median income, which in 2026 is about $54,000 - $94,500 for a single person and $77,000 - $135,000 for a family of four.

The Thurlow's Way complex follows two successful years operating the organization’s first development, Oliver’s Ridge in Deer Isle.  Since the summer of 2023, Oliver’s Ridge has provided housing to island teachers, restaurant staff, fishermen, office workers, and service providers -- and their families.

The permanently affordable rents are possible due to the organization’s success in raising two-thirds of the cost of construction in charitable contributions and grants.  For Thurlow’s Way that meant a Capital Campaign with a final goal of $2.4 million for a final project cost of about $3.6 million.  IWH's Treasurer Peter Roth reports that the goal is in sight as it continues to solicit contributions and foundation grants.

 Those interested in leasing an apartment are encouraged to visit www.islandworkforcehousing.org for more information, and application materials.  Applications will be accepted until April 1st and if there are more applicants than apartments, a lottery will be utilized.  Information sessions will be held in Stonington at the Island Community Center on March 10th and 14th and at the Deer Isle Town Office on March 17th.

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