Groundbreaking Ceremony for Garden Place Apartments to Address Affordable Senior Housing Needs in Estill County

In response to the growing demand for affordable senior housing in Estill County, Garden Place Apartments will break ground next week. This new residential community, designed to provide much-needed affordable housing for seniors aged 62 and older, will feature 30 elevator-accessible apartments, offering seniors safe, comfortable, and affordable living spaces.

The groundbreaking ceremony will take place on Monday, Dec. 9, 2024, at 10:00 AM at 120 Tyler Lane in Irvine, marking the start of construction on the 19,500-square-foot complex. The development is aimed at addressing a critical shortage of affordable senior housing in the region, with 22 units reserved for residents earning 30% of the Area Median Income (AMI) and 8 units for those earning 60% of AMI.

“We’re excited to be part of this important project,” said David Estepp, Executive Director of Kentucky River Foothills Development Council, Inc. “Garden Place Apartments will give seniors the opportunity to live independently in a space that is not only affordable but also designed with their needs in mind. This development is a crucial step in meeting the rising demand for senior housing in our area.”

The project has received a significant boost from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), which awarded the project a $1.8 million Capital Advance Grant for the construction of thirty Project Rental Assistance Contract (PRAC) dwelling units under the Section 202 Supportive Housing for the Elderly program. This funding is vital to ensuring the long-term affordability and success of the project, which will include 15,072 square feet of common areas to foster social connection among residents.

“We’re grateful for the support from HUD and our project partners who have worked tirelessly to make this vision a reality,” Estepp added. “This project isn’t just about building houses; it’s about building a community where seniors can feel safe, engaged, and supported.”

The development was designed with the quiet, rolling Appalachian foothills in mind, providing a safe, affordable, and beautiful home for local Kentuckians entering their retirement years. The design encourages independent living, along with opportunities for socializing, group activities, and connection with neighbors.

Despite funding delays caused by tornado and flooding relief efforts in 2022, as well as various cost increases over the years, the project team’s continued dedication and collaboration have made it possible to begin construction on this vital senior living community.

Garden Place is a home that promotes living – together.

The groundbreaking ceremony will bring together local leaders, community members, and key project partners, including The Housing Partnership, Kentucky River Foothills Development Council, and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), along with funding partners like Kentucky Housing Corporation, Hope of Kentucky, Marble Cliff Capital, Citizens Guaranty Bank, and Bosse Construction. These partnerships have provided critical financial support, including $1.25 million in Housing Credits and $2.39 million in Housing Development Funds from KHC.

Event Details:

• Date: Monday, December 9, 2024
• Time: 10:00 AM
• Location: 120 Tyler Lane, Irvine, Estill County, KY 40336

Parking will be available at Emmanuel Baptist Church, located at 106 Tyler Lane, just a short walk from the ceremony site. Due to the event taking place in a construction zone, attendees are asked to wear appropriate shoes for safety.

Following the ceremony, attendees are invited to join us for light refreshments at the Foothills Housing Office, located at 100 Tyler Lane.

Garden Place Apartments is more than just a housing project; it is a vital part of creating a stronger community for seniors in Estill County. The project represents a lasting impact for the region’s seniors, ensuring that they have a place to call home that offers both comfort and accessibility.

“We believe that everyone deserves a place to call home, and Garden Place Apartments will make that a reality for so many seniors in our area,” said Estepp.

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For more information, please contact Karen Atkins at (859) 494-5079 or [email protected]