News Summary
Lexington is embarking on a $6 million mixed-use development called The Railyard, set to introduce 32 rental units and commercial space. The project, located at 1000 Delaware Avenue, aims to enhance affordable housing options, with a completion date set for summer 2026. Developer Will Hanrahan emphasizes community engagement and celebrates the area’s industrial heritage. The development promises to boost job creation and invigorate the local economy.
Lexington is set to undergo a significant transformation this summer with the commencement of construction on a new $6 million mixed-use development named The Railyard. The project will be located at 1000 Delaware Avenue, at the intersection of Winchester and Liberty Roads, on a currently underutilized and vacant lot.
The Railyard will consist of three buildings housing a total of 32 rental units, along with ground-floor commercial space. Of the 32 residential units, 20 will be available at market rates, while 12 units will be designated as affordable housing for households earning 80% or less of the Area Median Income (AMI). The project is scheduled to be completed by summer 2026.
The Lexington Planning Commission unanimously approved the development in April, emphasizing its potential to provide much-needed housing options in the area. Council Member Liz Sheehan has voiced support for the project, noting its role as a model for infill development and enhanced accessibility to housing.
Developer Will Hanrahan, who resides in the Kenwick neighborhood, considers this his first development project. He has sought financial assistance from the Lexington Office of Affordable Housing to help support The Railyard’s execution. The site has a history of serving industrial purposes but has been vacant for several years, paving the way for this new transformative initiative.
The design of The Railyard will feature urban industrial architecture, incorporating metal wall panels and a masonry ground floor that reflects the area’s historic freight and passenger railroad hub. Hanrahan aims to create a community space that not only fosters neighborhood engagement but also celebrates the industrial heritage of the locale.
The development is expected to generate approximately 50 temporary construction jobs during the building phase and 20 permanent retail positions once completed. The project aligns with a growing trend of revitalization along Delaware Avenue, which is home to several small to medium-sized businesses, including Paradise Cycles and Pasta Garage, further reinforcing a supportive environment for new ventures.
Hanrahan has conducted extensive research concerning the demand for affordable housing in Lexington, demonstrating a commitment to addressing this pressing need through The Railyard. With the rising challenges of housing affordability in many urban areas, this project is positioned to make a meaningful impact on the community by providing diverse and accessible living options.
As construction of The Railyard begins, the local community can anticipate a boost in both residential and commercial opportunities, as the development promises to inject new life into a previously underdeveloped area of Lexington, setting the stage for both economic growth and improved quality of life for its residents.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Delaware Avenue Transformations in Lexington
Additional Resources
- Smiley Pete: The Railyard
- Lane Report: Lexington Mixed-Use Development
- Kentucky.com: Fayette County News
- Cola Daily: Platt Springs Crossing
- Community Impact: Mixed-Use Concept Near Smart Financial Centre
- Wikipedia: Mixed-use Development
- Google Search: Lexington Development
- Google Scholar: Affordable Housing in Lexington
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Urban Planning
- Google News: Lexington Affordable Housing
Author: STAFF HERE LEXINGTON KY STAFF
The LEXINGTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERELexingtonKY.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Lexington, Fayette County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Woodland Art Fair, Crave Food and Music Festival, and Railbird Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like Commerce Lexington and Blue Grass Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in education, manufacturing, and technology that power the local economy such as University of Kentucky, Toyota Motor Manufacturing, and Lexmark. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBowlingGreen.com and HERELouisville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Kentucky's dynamic landscape.
