Louisville, Kentucky, January 7, 2026
The Ashanti House Cultural Development Center in Louisville’s Parkland neighborhood is set for a $1 million revitalization. This project, funded by the West End Community Development Investment Fund, aims to restore the historic building established in 1904 as a firehouse and repurpose it as a community space. The process will be completed in two phases, focusing on functionality and final use based on community input, with the goal to engage residents for sustainable partnerships.
Louisville, Kentucky
Historic Ashanti House to Undergo $1 Million Revitalization in Parkland Neighborhood
Louisville’s Parkland neighborhood is set to receive a significant boost with the announcement of a $1 million revitalization project for the historic Ashanti House Cultural Development Center. The funding, allocated from the West End Community Development Investment Fund, aims to restore the building to its former glory and repurpose it as a vibrant community space.
Project Details
The Ashanti House, established in 1904 as Engine 19 Firehouse, later served as a community center before falling into private ownership. In 2020, the Louisville Metro Landbank Authority acquired the property to prevent further decline. The $1 million investment will be utilized in two phases: the first phase focuses on making the building functional, while the second phase will determine its final use based on community input. A pre-bid meeting for contractors is scheduled for January 14, with bidding closing on January 30. The project is expected to be completed by the end of the year.
Community Involvement
Community leaders, including Councilwoman Tammy Hawkins, have been instrumental in advocating for the revitalization of the Ashanti House. Hawkins emphasized the importance of community engagement in the project’s development, stating that the goal is to place the space in the hands of sustainable nonprofit organizations focused on safety and improving quality of life. The city plans to host meetings with the community to discuss a new name for the building and to identify suitable nonprofits to take on the project.
Background Context
The Ashanti House has a rich history in the Parkland neighborhood, having served as a firehouse and later as a community center. Its acquisition by the Landbank Authority in 2020 was a proactive measure to prevent further deterioration. The current revitalization project is part of a broader effort by the city to invest in and rejuvenate historic structures, aiming to provide residents with accessible and functional community spaces. This initiative aligns with the city’s commitment to enhancing the quality of life for its residents through thoughtful urban development and community engagement.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Ashanti House Cultural Development Center?
The Ashanti House, established in 1904 as Engine 19 Firehouse, later served as a community center before falling into private ownership. In 2020, the Louisville Metro Landbank Authority acquired the property to prevent further decline. The $1 million investment will be utilized in two phases: the first phase focuses on making the building functional, while the second phase will determine its final use based on community input. A pre-bid meeting for contractors is scheduled for January 14, with bidding closing on January 30. The project is expected to be completed by the end of the year.
How is the revitalization project funded?
The $1 million investment is allocated from the West End Community Development Investment Fund, which is part of the city’s budget. This fund is dedicated to supporting revitalization projects in the West End community.
What is the timeline for the project?
The project is expected to be completed by the end of the year. A pre-bid meeting for contractors is scheduled for January 14, with bidding closing on January 30. The first phase focuses on making the building functional, while the second phase will determine its final use based on community input.
How can the community get involved?
The city plans to host meetings with the community to discuss a new name for the building and to identify suitable nonprofits to take on the project. Community leaders, including Councilwoman Tammy Hawkins, have been instrumental in advocating for the revitalization of the Ashanti House and emphasize the importance of community engagement in the project’s development.
What is the significance of the Ashanti House in the Parkland neighborhood?
The Ashanti House has a rich history in the Parkland neighborhood, having served as a firehouse and later as a community center. Its acquisition by the Landbank Authority in 2020 was a proactive measure to prevent further deterioration. The current revitalization project is part of a broader effort by the city to invest in and rejuvenate historic structures, aiming to provide residents with accessible and functional community spaces.
Key Features of the Ashanti House Revitalization Project
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Funding | $1 million from the West End Community Development Investment Fund |
| Project Phases | Phase 1: Make the building functional; Phase 2: Determine final use based on community input |
| Timeline | Pre-bid meeting on January 14; Bidding closes on January 30; Completion expected by end of the year |
| Community Involvement | Meetings to discuss new name and identify suitable nonprofits for the project |
| Historical Significance | Established in 1904 as Engine 19 Firehouse; later served as a community center |
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