Construction on the long-awaited Rachel Carson EcoVillage at Providence Heights, a sustainable cohabitation of 35 units in McCandless, has broken ground after several years of discussions and rezoning.
The village is located on land donated by the Sisters of Divine Providence near Cumberland Road and Babcock Boulevard adjacent to La Roche University. Seeking a diverse array of age, race, culture and sexual identity, the village is designed to “offer easier connections” among neighbors, according to its website.
After an initial deal with Chatham University fell through, the sisters donated 8 acres for the village. Following this, McCandless went through an extensive rezoning process for the land before construction could begin.
Ultimately, the village will consist of numerous homes in a large wooded area, ranging from studios to four-bedroom domiciles, with access to common spaces for community building activities and practical areas such as a work room and mail room.
The homes, in keeping with the village’s environmental goals, are built with the “highest standards of energy conservation, durability and air quality,” according to a release by the EcoVillage. The community also is self-governing, lacking a board or management company, but the homes can be bought and sold like any other.
McCandless Manager John Schwend said the township is “very excited” to host the village.
According to the release, the village still has several units available, and those interested can attend informational sessions. Details are available on the village’s website at rachelcarsonecovillage.org.
Construction likely will conclude sometime in 2025, according to the release, though a firm time line is not set. Schwend said McCandless had not received any building permits, and he is unsure when the first villagers may move in.
