Metro Lex News

Mayor Linda Gorton and Gleanings Housing Inc. celebrated the opening of a new affordable housing triplex in Lexington's East End neighborhood today. The project, located at 721 Magoffin St., aims to address the pressing need for affordable housing in the city.

“Affordable housing is a pressing need in our city,” said Mayor Linda Gorton. “This project is designed to help families who are most in need of help.” The triplex includes two one-bedroom units and one three-bedroom unit, offering affordable options for households with very low incomes. Rent will be set at 30% of household income.

Laura Slaughter, Executive Director of Gleanings Housing, emphasized their mission: “Gleanings Housing believes a flourishing community begins with everyone having a stable place to live. Our mission is to build a community of people who work together to develop housing that is affordable for people with very low incomes. Individuals prosper when their basic needs are met.”

Since its inception in 2014, the city's Affordable Housing Fund has contributed $48.3 million towards building or preserving 3,500 units, leveraging an additional $440 million from private and public resources.

Construction on the triplex began in March 2022, costing $175,000 with significant volunteer support. Gleanings Housing received $34,954 from Lexington’s Non-Profit Capital Grant Program for FY24-FY25 for the Hardscape Project on Magoffin Street. This funding covered tree removal and improvements to the driveway, parking lot, fencing, sidewalks, and steps.

Additionally, Gleanings was awarded $16,514 for appliances such as washers and dryers, refrigerators, stoves, and microwaves for this property and another location.

Local businesses including Kentucky Plumbing in Nicholasville, Medyna Plumbing, Fayette Electric Service, Mosley Heating & Air contributed expertise to complete mechanical installations. Donations also came from Plumbers & Pipefitters Union, Peterson Electric, and Walmart.