City cuts ribbon to open new affordable townhomes

Mayor Linda Gorton joined the Lexington Housing Authority today to cut a ribbon to officially open five new affordable townhomes at 428-435 East Sixth St.

"We have worked with the Lexington Housing Authority for many years to provide a wide variety of housing options for people who have varying income levels," Mayor Linda Gorton said. "These units offer supportive wrap-around services provided by the Housing Authority to support people who need help."

Austin Simms, Executive Director of the Housing Authority, said, "We're excited to present to this community five more affordable housing units, showcasing the longtime partnership between the Lexington Housing Authority and the Urban County Government.

Since 2014, the city's Affordable Housing Fund has invested $47 million in the construction and/or preservation of 3,487 units. The $47 million investment has leveraged another $431 million from private and other public resources.

Joining the ribbon-cutting ceremony were Housing and Urban Development Office of Public

and Indian Housing Principal Deputy Assistant Richard Monocchio, and HUD Field Office Director Carol Spencer. In addition, Councilmember James Brown, Lexington Housing Authority Board Chair Joan Whitman, and Commissioner of Housing Advocacy & Community Development Charlie Lanter were also present.

The Housing Authority will own and manage the properties and will receive participant referrals through the City's Coordinated Entry program. The Housing Authority will provide case management for participants, and all utility services will be paid.

These units are designed for people who have struggled with homelessness for many years. They need supportive services, Gorton said.

The townhouses, each two-bedroom, one-and-a-half bathrooms and 1,200 square feet, feature front and rear covered porches, off-street parking, granite countertops, dishwashers, walk-in closets, and laminate wood flooring.

Construction of the townhouses, which began in February 2023, was managed by The Way Maker Group, a local construction firm, and designed by Albert & Associates Architecture.

The City invested $900,000 in HOME ARPA dollars, and received $516,452 from state and local fiscal recovery dollars through ARPA legislation, totaling over $1.4 million.

"The district is proud to be the location of this exciting project," said First District Councilmember Tayna Fogle. "Pemberton Apartments will help fulfill the dream of families who have been unhoused, and give them a place to call home."

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