Located close to the downtown area, Residents enjoy many indoor activities, including a weekly meal program. Amenities include beautifully landscaped grounds where residents can plant flowers or vegetables in one of the individual garden planters. Several of the upper floor units have lovely views of the downtown area and Bellingham Bay. Washington Square was a recipient of ARRA Green Communities Grant funding to update building envelope, reduce utilities, and incorporate green technologies. As of fall 2012, the building uses photovoltaic solar panels to generate roughly 10% of the building’s electricity use. Underground geothermal piping delivers hot water to preheat the boiler water. High efficiency boilers, new efficient lighting with sensors, and water saving devices were added to decrease utility costs. Increased ventilation in living spaces and several garden areas were installed to increase the “comfort level” in this community.