Humboldt Commons Opens Future Residents Priority List
March 18, 2026
McKINLEYVILLE, Calif. — Humboldt Commons, a nonprofit senior living community in development in the McKinleyville Town Center, has opened enrollment for its Future Residents Priority List.
The community-led project is planned on 14.6 acres south of Hiller Road and will include cottages, apartments and shared community spaces for adults 62 and older.
Prospective residents who join the priority list with a $1,000 repayable deposit will secure their place in line for future residence selection, receive project updates and community news, and be among the first to hear about next steps. The community is in the schematic design phase.
LSW Architects is designing Humboldt Commons, and Pacific Builders, a local contractor with residential construction experience, will serve as builder.
Ann Lindsay, president of Life Plan Humboldt, the local nonprofit developing the community, said joining the priority list allows prospective residents to reserve a place early in the process.
“Humboldt Commons will be a community where residents age with independence, social connections and purpose,” Lindsay said. “The community is rooted in sustainability and innovation, and reflects the region’s deeply held values of inclusiveness.”
JoAnn Schuch, a board member and new member of the priority list, said the planned off-leash dog park was one of the features that appealed to her.
“I hike with my dog Molly every day for exercise, but also for the social contact we find with the other dog walkers,” Schuch said. “As I get older, I’m really excited to have the off-leash dog park at Humboldt Commons. It will be nice to have a place close by where we can chat with people while we watch the ‘doggos’ play.”
Residents will be able to choose from apartments and cottages designed with senior-friendly features and natural light. Planned amenities include walking paths, gardens and access to community trails.
The community will also include gathering spaces for potlucks, music nights and resident-led activities. The company says support services are likely to include health navigation, home maintenance, dining options and housekeeping.
Humboldt Commons has opened a Welcome Center at 1585 Heartwood Drive, Suite B, in McKinleyville. Staff members are available by appointment to meet with prospective residents and answer questions. The organization also plans monthly information sessions online and in person.
Humboldt Commons is being developed by Life Plan Humboldt, a nonprofit founded in 2020 by local residents seeking more options for aging in Humboldt County.
As a Kendal Affiliate in Development, Humboldt Commons is partnering with Kendal, a nonprofit senior living organization. The project also includes a lower-income senior housing component on adjacent land that will be built and managed by Rural Community Housing. Residents of both communities are expected to share amenities and activities.