LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- Louisville’s push to revitalize its downtown took a significant step forward with a plan to transform vacant and abandoned buildings into housing, retail spaces, and more.
The goal is to preserve the city's iconic skyline while creating vibrant, accessible spaces for residents and businesses alike.
One key project is the Starks Building, a century-old structure that has stood vacant for years. Underhill Associates, a redevelopment and management company, has been working to breathe new life into the historic property since early 2020.
John Hunzicker, a partner at Underhill Associates, shared the company’s vision: “We aim to renovate the Starks Building into 305 apartments, with 275 of those being affordable housing units.”
The plan also includes dedicated spaces for artists.
Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg expressed support for the city’s revitalization efforts, noting that the redevelopment program is part of a broader initiative to reimagine downtown.
"Nearly 20 applications have already been submitted," Mayor Greenberg said, adding that a portion of $100 million in state funding would help close gaps in financing for these projects.
“The developers will borrow money, and there might be additional incentives, but these funds are designed to provide the last push needed to turn projects from plans into reality,” Greenberg said.
Rebecca Fleischaker, executive director of the Louisville Downtown Partnership, emphasized the importance of attracting more residents to downtown.
“People living here put feet on the street 24 hours a day, and that changes everything,” Fleischaker said.
The Starks Building is one of several properties in the city poised for a makeover. City officials are hopeful the project will lead to a ripple effect of revitalization across the area.
While the city’s plans are still under review, developers like Hunzicker are eager to move forward.
“We believe the Starks Building is a historic asset that’s worth saving,” he said. “We are ready to get started as soon as we get the green light.”
City officials are expected to announce the results of the funding applications next month, with the goal of completing projects within three years.
In addition to housing, the city is focused on converting vacant office spaces into hotels, entertainment venues, and more, as part of a larger effort to make downtown Louisville a 24/7 neighborhood.
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