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August 25, 2025

In Mount Desert, Island Housing Trust launches into next phase of housing development

Ripples Hill Courtesy / Robles Productions A groundbreaking last week included residents of the development’s first nine homes, town officials, community partners, donors, contractor Harold MacQuinn Inc. and Brewer modular and manufactured home builder Showcase Homes of Maine.
By Laurie Schreiber

The nonprofit Island Housing Trust launched the final phase of a median-income housing development in the town of Mount Desert.

The $3.05 million third phase will add nine homes to the Ripples Hill development, doubling its size. A groundbreaking last week included residents of the development’s first nine homes, 

The trust’s mission is to promote island communities with year-round housing affordable to median-income families on Mount Desert Island. town officials, community partners, donors, contractor Harold MacQuinn Inc. and Brewer modular and manufactured home builder Showcase Homes of Maine.

Ripples Hill was initiated in 2006 on land, off Beech Hill Road, donated by the town of Mount Desert. The first two phases created nine energy-efficient homes for year-round residents working on the island.

A drawing shows a house.
Rendering / Courtesy Todd L. Stanley Downeast Home Design
The goal is to have the second batch of nine houses complete by the end of 2026.

The goal is to have the second batch of nine houses complete by the end of 2026. The trust is accepting homeowner applications for Phase 3. 

“Ripples Hill Phase 3 is about more than building homes,” said Natalie Osborne, the trust’s programs director. “By expanding opportunities for homeownership, we’re ensuring that families can put down roots and sustain island life for generations to come.” 

Earlier this year, the town of Mount Desert committed $470,000 toward road and sewer development for this final phase. 

“The town recognizes how critical housing is to the future of our community,” said Durlin Lunt, Mount Desert’s town manager.

Lines and color blocks are laid over an aerial photo of woods and houses.
Composite / Courtesy Todd L. Stanley Downeast Home Design
The nonprofit Island Housing Trust launched the final phase of a median-income housing development in the town of Mount Desert.

The trust is close to the finish line to fully fund the final phase, said Marla O’Byrne, the trust’s executive director.

Originally projected to cost $2.4 million, rising construction costs drove up the third phase to $3.05 million. 

A person stands with easels in a field.
Courtesy / Robles Productions
The trust is close to the finish line to fully fund the final phase, said Marla O’Byrne, the trust’s executive director.

To date, 87% of the funding has been raised. To help bridge the final gap, an anonymous foundation has committed to match gifts dollar-for-dollar, up to $350,000. The challenge grant offers donors the opportunity to double the impact of their contribution. 

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