03/17/2025
Media Release: City of Garden Plain Receives $300,000 Housing Grant
The City of Garden Plain has been awarded a $300,000 grant from Kansas Housing Resources Corporation (KHRC) in Moderate Income Housing (MIH) funds to assist with the construction of five duplexes in the Renner Multi-Family Housing Development.
Cary Renner, owner and developer, expressed his gratitude for the grant award. “I was born and raised in Garden Plain; many of my extended family members still live and work in the community. I chose to invest in the project knowing that affordable housing is an ongoing need in the community. Garden Plain will always be home.”
Situated on 1.26 acres at the intersection of Harry and Main, the development will provide 10 total new housing units: two, two-bedroom single-story duplexes, and three three-bedroom two-story duplexes. The homes are designed as craftsman bungalows.
“Another great win for our community” said Mayor Kevin Hammond. In 2023 the City conducted a housing study that identified needs for single and multi-family, rental and owner-occupied, and senior specific housing. “From that study, the City developed a housing strategic plan. We’ve been working that plan and it’s paying off. We have seen new single-family homes built in Bentwood and Trail Ridge Additions, and some infill development around town. We look forward to the construction of these homes and welcoming new residents to our community.”
In exchange for the MIH grant funds, the developer agreed to reserve five of the 10 housing units for individuals or families that meet the moderate income criteria established by Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for a period of five years. The remaining five units may be leased at market rate or below, as the developer desires.
City Administrator Kelly McElroy noted the importance of the development of this particular property. “It’s located near the heart of our community; at one of the major intersections in town. It’s had drainage issues for years that have occasionally affected the surrounding homes. The construction of the development will help correct the drainage issue, as well as adding much needed housing options for Garden Plain.”
Construction is anticipated to begin in late 2025 or early 2026. The total estimated cost of the project is $3.05 million.