Lexington, KY, October 22, 2025
News Summary
A proposed multi-family housing development by Ball Homes has met opposition from residents in the Andover Hills and Still Meadow neighborhoods, mainly due to traffic safety and neighborhood integrity concerns. Over 300 households have reached out to express their worries and seek guidance. The developer has postponed its rezoning proposal to the Lexington city council, now scheduled for consideration on November 20th. In addition, a separate affordable housing project recently received approval despite neighborhood objections, highlighting ongoing concerns about housing density in Lexington.
Lexington Faces Community Concerns Over Multi-Family Housing Developments
A proposed multi-family housing development by Ball Homes in the Andover Hills and Still Meadow neighborhoods is encountering significant opposition from local residents. The controversy centers around concerns about potential traffic safety and neighborhood integrity, which have led to increasing unrest among the community.
Residents met recently with an attorney to discuss the most effective ways to communicate their concerns to the developers. Scott Green, president of the Still Meadow Homeowners Association, emphasized the critical need for the development plans to prioritize the safety of children in the area and the preservation of the neighborhood’s environment. Since the announcement of the multi-family housing initiative, over 300 households have reached out to Green for guidance on how to voice their apprehensions.
One significant issue highlighted during the discussions was traffic safety on Chilesburg Road, a commonly used route by children and pets in the neighborhood. This concern underscores the potential implications the new development could have on the daily lives of local residents.
The recent community meeting, held on Tuesday, was closed to the public to maintain attorney-client privilege but was nevertheless well-attended by concerned residents. In a move that has drawn additional scrutiny, Ball Homes has now postponed its rezoning proposal to the Lexington city council, with the new scheduling for consideration set for November 20th at 1:30 p.m.
Additional Development Controversy in Lexington
In a separate yet related development issue, the Lexington city council recently approved a zone change for a 12.5-acre affordable housing project on the former site of Transylvania University’s baseball field. The approval has occurred despite objections raised by the Radcliffe-Marlboro Neighborhood Association regarding traffic congestion and local flooding risks exacerbated by the proposed development.
This housing project aims to build 234 new affordable homes, featuring 26 houses, 29 townhomes, and 179 apartments, with a portion designated for senior housing. A recent housing study indicates that Lexington requires over 22,500 homes to meet the current demand for housing opportunities.
The project aims to provide shelter to residents earning 80% or less of the median income in Lexington, which translates to an income threshold of under $76,150 for a family of four. The land, sold by Transylvania University in March 2024 for $2.8 million, is now set for this extensive housing initiative.
Reactions from the Community
As discussions surrounding housing density and building designs continue, residents have expressed fears that the new housing units could lead to overcrowding in the area. A density cap was implemented alongside the zone change to restrict the maximum number of units allowed on the property. This measure aims to address concerns regarding too many homes being fitted into a limited land area.
Moreover, local residents have criticized what they perceive as a lack of meaningful communication from developers regarding changes to the originally proposed structures. Scott Sloan, a concerned local resident, accused developers of altering their plans for apartment-style buildings from initial proposals of duplexes and triplexes, viewing this as a possible “bait-and-switch” tactic. Developers have, however, committed to working with neighborhood associations to finalize the construction plans, ensuring that community concerns are duly considered.
While neighborhood objections persist, advocates for both developments assert that these projects are essential for tackling Lexington’s ongoing housing shortages, which remain a pressing issue for the community.
Summary of Key Points
- Ball Homes Development: Proposed multi-family housing facing opposition in Andover Hills and Still Meadow neighborhoods.
- Community Concerns: Over 300 households express traffic safety and neighborhood integrity worries.
- Postponement: Ball Homes’ rezoning proposal to be considered by the Lexington city council on November 20th.
- Affordable Housing Project: 234 homes approved, including various types of residences, amid neighborhood objections.
FAQ
What is the main concern regarding the Ball Homes Development?
The primary concern involves traffic safety on Chilesburg Road, affecting children and pets, as well as the preservation of neighborhood character.
What is the timeline for the Ball Homes rezoning proposal?
The rezoning proposal has been postponed and is scheduled to be discussed at the Lexington city council on November 20th at 1:30 p.m.
What does the affordable housing project on the former baseball field entail?
The project will create 234 affordable homes, including houses, townhomes, and apartments, targeting residents earning 80% or less of the median income.
Key Features of New Developments
| Feature | Ball Homes Development | Affordable Housing Project |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Andover Hills and Still Meadow | Former Transylvania University Baseball Field |
| Households Impacted | Over 300 households expressing concerns | N/A |
| Traffic Safety Concerns | Yes, particularly on Chilesburg Road | No specific mentions |
| Number of Units | Proposed units unspecified | 234 affordable homes |
| Scheduled Meeting Date | November 20th, 2023 | N/A |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Clark County Advances Towards Recovery Ready Certification
Lexington Unveils Renovated Briarwood Apartments for Affordable Housing
Additional Resources
- Kentucky.com: Lexington Neighborhood Housing Proposal
- WKYT: Residents Concerned Over Housing Proposal
- Lane Report: Interview with Lisa Ball, CEO of Ball Homes
- WTVQ: Obituary of Don Ball, Founder of Ball Homes
- Kentucky.com: Affordable Housing Initiative in Lexington
- Wikipedia: Affordable Housing
- Google Search: Lexington Housing Situation
- Google Scholar: Lexington Housing Proposals
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Urban Development
- Google News: Lexington Housing Crisis
Author: STAFF HERE LEXINGTON KY STAFF
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