Larkspur Flats Neighborhood

Gift of Land

The Methow Conservancy has generously gifted six acres of land near the Heckendorn neighborhood in Winthrop to Methow Housing Trust (MHT), where MHT will develop a permanently affordable neighborhood. The land, currently called "Larkspur Flats," is situated below the Meadowlark Natural Area and is ideal for full-time residents who work in the Methow Valley.

Originally purchased by the Conservancy in 2018, the property was intended to support community needs. Now, this donation addresses the Valley’s pressing demand for local, affordable housing. The Methow Housing Trust will manage planning and development, drawing on their experience to create a neighborhood that serves our local workforce. With more than 60 households currently waiting, the need for affordable housing is critical, and this generous donation from the Methow Conservancy marks an exciting step forward for the community.

Larkspur-Flats-at-a-distance-indicated-with-arrow.Benj-Drummond.png

Photos courtesy of the Methow Conservancy and Benj Drummond

Neighborhood Development PRocess

Annexation Process (2025): On June 18th, 2025, the Winthrop Town Council accepted and approved the Planning Commission's recommendation to approve annexation of the Larkspur property, and to establish Planned Residential (PR) as the zoning determination. Annexation of the Larkspur property into the town of Winthrop was an 8 month process that involved public hearings with both the Town Council and Planning Commission. We are grateful to the Town's skilled staff, volunteers on Council and Planning, as well as invested members of our community who have taken the time to share opinions, ask questions, and listen to each other’s support and concerns.

Planned Development Pre-approval Process (2026): This is when the developer (MHT) presents a plan for the neighborhood (number and location of housing units, roads, utility specs, open space and trail plans). This process is driven by codes and standards at the Town and State level, and the developer must meet these codes and requirements to be pre-approved to begin infrastructure development. There is a public comment meeting, facilitated by the Planning Commission. At this time, MHT will be providing a planned development proposal that addresses density, road standards, safety and traffic flow, conservation considerations and benefits to the community given current demand for affordable housing for locals.