Federal funding helps dozens of community projects move forward in Louisville
LOUISVILLE, Ky. — More than a dozen projects in Louisville are receiving additional funding, courtesy of Congressman Morgan McGarvey.
The representative for Kentucky’s Third Congressional District secured over $12 million as part of the Community Project Funding government package signed into law by President Joe Biden.
The investments are helping to reduce violence, build safer streets, boost infrastructure and enhance parks in the city.
One of the projects is through YouthBuild Louisville, which is constructing a community center at the corner of Breckinridge and Hancock streets in Smoketown.
CEO Lynn Rippy says here young people can study, do homework, build leadership skills, and participate in violence prevention programs.
“I really hope we can develop a space to make them feel a sense of community, for them to know it’s theirs, and that our young people are here safe and supported,” Rippy said. “We’re trying to ensure that their promise of life is just as strong as the promise of life for all other young people.”
The first phase of the $2.5 million project is expected to be completed this summer.
The federal funds are also helping the 30th and Madison Street Project, that's contributing to the revitalization of west Louisville.
It's two blocks from the new $50 million Goodwill Opportunity Campus and directly across the street from the $53 million Norton Sports and Learning Center.
The $150 million capital project is spearheaded by Russell: A Place of Promise, a nonprofit focused on investment without displacement.
They plan to transform a five-acre property into a mixed-use development with housing and retail space, a food hall like Logan Street Market, and a parking garage, among other amenities.
“It's coming at exactly the right time because we are in pre-development and we have immediate needs that this is going to help us to fulfill,” said Theresa Zawacki, co-lead for Russell: A Place of Promise.
Aligning with the organization's wealth-building strategy, Russell residents will share ownership of the space under a community-owned real estate assets model.
“I have a lot of deep-rooted family history in Russell and only one family member was an owner,” said Doneah Marshall, administrative support specialist for the organization. “It's pretty significant in saying like, not only is this my neighborhood, but I have decision making power in my neighborhood.”
They credit those in Washington, D.C., for their decision to impact lives here in Louisville.
“Just having those spaces where people can go and be and incorporate those spaces into their daily lives, it's really exciting to think about,” Marshall said.
Officials expect to break ground on the 30th and Madison Street Project by the end of 2025 and begin construction the following year.
Other local entities that received the federal funds include Simmons College, OneWest, La Casita Center, and Metro Government.
By: Alexis Mathews
Source: WLKY