LEXINGTON, Ky. — A local couple marked a major achievement with community support as Sharell Byrd and Ledarius Jackson purchased their new home at 557 Shropshire Ave., one of nine single-family homes developed through a collaborative effort between the Lexington Housing Authority, REACH (Resources Education Assistance for Community Housing), Central Bank and the city's Office of Affordable Housing.

The home purchase reflects Lexington's ongoing effort to expand affordable homeownership opportunities. The city's Affordable Housing Fund has leveraged nearly half a billion dollars in private investment and other subsidy dollars since 2014, and according to the city's official announcement, the community has made over 4,000 affordable homes and apartments available during that period.

Mayor Linda Gorton emphasized the importance of partnership in meeting housing needs. "Lexington community has worked together as partners to make over 4,000 affordable homes and apartments available since 2014," Gorton said. "We've got more work to do, but we have made significant progress."

The Byrd-Jackson purchase comes as Austin Simms, the Housing Authority's executive director, steps down after a 53-year career with the agency. Simms noted the collaborative approach has proven effective. "Lexington shows that affordable homeownership can work with the collaborative efforts, such as shown here today," he said.

Luther Deaton, chairman, president and CEO of Central Bank & Trust Co., emphasized the importance of partnerships in expanding housing access. "Central Bank is honored to be a part of this partnership, working together to provide all residents of Lexington affordable housing opportunities," he said.

REACH provides non-repayable mortgage subsidies and low-interest loans to lower to moderate-income first-time homebuyers as part of its broader mission to advance affordable housing through education and financial assistance. "This is the result of great teamwork and dedication," said Elisa Cooley, REACH executive director.