Skansa USA has signed a $54 million contract to construct Alley 111 a 259-unit apartment building at 11011 N.E. 9th St, in what is now a vacant lot across from the Bravern and next to the Marriott in downtown Bellevue.

Skansa USA purchased the 41,000-square-foot parcel last year for $11 million. Plans include a 12-floor structure with four levels of below-grade parking and a plaza outfitted with small storefronts. The building, designed to be eco-friendly, features green roofs and high-efficiency appliances.

Construction is expected to begin this month and wrap in 2015.