Development Activity Update

In March 2023, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) paused land disturbance activity on all undeveloped lands at Point Hope after moving the Northern Long-Eared Bat from “threatened” to “endangered” status because of a disease called “white nose syndrome,” which is unique to their species and occurs in their hibernation locations. Unfortunately, this upgrade in status was issued without USFWS guidance for landowners who potentially have this species.

The confusion surrounding the lack of guidance from the USFWS is compounded by the fact that the Northern Long-Eared Bat does not hibernate in the warmer climates and is active year-round. Informal testing has shown no evidence that this species exists on the property. However, there is another bat called the “Tri-colored Bat” that has recently been proposed for “endangered species” status. The Point Hope property, like most in this region, has that species of bat. The development team is awaiting further instructions from the USFWS, but ultimately, it is expected that the guidance for land disturbance and timbering will define some onsite mitigation requirements (such as erecting bat boxes) and a limited timbering season to avoid colder months.

Existing development already in progress is allowed to continue at Point Hope. Homebuilders continue to prepare for future offerings on existing and developing parcels, and design and engineering work and the City review process for the pool and sports park amenity continues to move forward. There is a small amount of site clearing remaining for the amenity site, but we anticipate receiving guidance on timbering timeframes soon, and to proceed with a groundbreaking next spring. The previously announced target opening date of Summer 2025 is still our goal.