Schnur Cottages
Town-Center Duplexes
Schnur Cottages - Completed 2025
In January, 2025, IAP was awarded a Maine State Housing Authority grant, which, in addition to a loan from the Genesis Fund, and generous private donations, provided enough capital to build two new three-bedroom, two-bathroom homes on land donated by Marc V. Schnur, expanding the Ruthie James subdivision.
In February, 2025, Rick Rogers Lane was built off Reeby Road, and sitework and foundations for the new Schnur Cottages were completed by June.
On July 21st, the first modular home arrived by barge at the Narrows, the pieces were offloaded by crane and towed to the building site on Rick Rogers Lane. The second home arrived the following day. Assembly of the modular homes was carried out in September and October. Interior work was completed by December, and the first tenants were settled-in by Christmas, 2025.
The Schnur Cottages provide housing for two year-round families, helping to mitigate the housing shortage facing Islesboro families seeking year-round, affordable residences.
Town Center Duplexes - Completed 2026
A short distance away at the Town Center site, the duplex project has achieved equally significant progress. Over the past year, IAP raised sufficient funds to complete the first Town Center Duplex, totaling two new long-term affordable homes. Work began with the continuation of Rick Rogers Lane, and construction of the first duplex began in 2025. These 750 square feet, two-bedroom, one-bathroom units were completed in early 2026, and are now occupied. Landscaping is scheduled to be completed summer 2026.
Next Steps: A Second Duplex and More Homes Ahead
Completion of the first Town Center Duplex was made possible entirely through raising private funds. Part of the scope of the first Town Center Duplex was the completion of site-work and infrastructure for a second Duplex. The demand for affordable housing on Islesboro continues to grow, and IAP is preparing to build further. Approximately $700,000 is needed to launch the next phase of development of the Town Center project consisting of a second duplex adjacent to the first on the 6.1 acres of donated land. Site work is slated to begin May 2026, with construction to follow as fundraising goals are met. We are collaborating with town committees and energy partners to design sustainable homes that reflect Islesboro’s values and long-term needs.
