4.2 acres platted in southeast Newton decades ago for 14 detached townhome units, is now being opened up for construction of single family homes. An eight lot subdivision has been approved for Whispering Pines at 501 East 19th Street South. The request to make vacant lots there available for single family houses was made by Griffith Home Builders of Kellogg President Chuck Griffith. Newton Mayor Evelyn George notes building on the property hasn’t occurred for many years.

“I know there has been a lot of effort put into trying to sell the vacant lots, and it hasn’t been successful when it was set up as the original condominium development. They feel this will be more successful.”

Five homes currently exist at Whispering Pines, but nothing has been built since 2007. With the change to single family housing, three lots are now available for new homes.