RICHMOND, Ind. (December 10, 2025) – Community partners gathered Thursday, November 20, to break ground on the Vaile Neighborhood Revitalization Project, a transformative initiative that will bring 22 new affordable homes to Richmond’s southside. Supported by a $1,120,000 Regional Acceleration and Development Initiative (READI) 2.0 award from the State of Indiana, made possible through the Lilly Endowment Inc. (LEI), the project aims to expand housing
options, reduce blight, and strengthen neighborhood revitalization efforts throughout Richmond and Wayne County.
As the State continues prioritizing community revitalization and attainable housing, Governor Mike Braun highlighted the importance of this collaborative effort.
“This project is a perfect example of how communities are strengthened when local partners work together. I’m grateful for this collaboration, which will expand affordable homeownership opportunities and revitalize neighborhoods across Richmond and Wayne County. This will stimulate the local economy, support our workforce and, most importantly, encourage families to put down roots right here in Wayne County,” said Indiana Governor Mike Braun.
The homes will be constructed as infill development on existing vacant lots provided by the Richmond Housing Authority and Habitat for Humanity. Each home will include three bedrooms and two bathrooms, ranging from 1,300 to 1,600 square feet, and be built using high-quality, sustainable materials. Once complete, the project will deliver modern yet affordable housing that complements the neighborhood’s historic character while advancing Wayne County’s broader
goals for housing, economic growth, and community reinvestment.
Project redevelopment will be led by Intend Indiana, a nonprofit organization focused on equitable community development through its HomeMatters program. Intend Indiana works alongside municipalities and local leaders to strengthen neighborhood housing markets, expand access to homeownership, and support the development of local land bank programs.
“Homeownership is a powerful step toward stability and opportunity, and this investment helps open that door for more families in Richmond,” said Stephanie Quick, president of Intend Indiana. “The Vaile Neighborhood project will not only provide new homes but will also create a pathway for families to thrive for generations to come.”
The Wayne County Foundation has also committed a $1 million local impact investment loan to support project development, reinforcing the community’s shared dedication to housing and neighborhood revitalization.
“This project is a strong example of strategic impact investment at work,” said Acacia St. John, Director of Forward Wayne County. “By broadening the housing mix for our residents and advancing measurable goals for neighborhood revitalization, the Foundation is addressing both immediate community needs and long-term population growth objectives. The Vaile Neighborhood initiative reflects the kind of catalytic partnership that strengthens our local economy, provides homeownership opportunities for our residents, and builds a more inclusive, thriving Wayne County.”
In total, the Vaile Neighborhood infill housing initiative represents a $7.2 million investment dedicated to improving quality of life and supporting workforce housing opportunities across the region.
“This project represents a transformative step in our strategy to strengthen neighborhoods and expand attainable housing across Richmond and Wayne County,” said Valerie Shaffer, president of the Economic Development Corporation (EDC) of Wayne County. “Through partnerships like this, we’re not only building homes, but we’re also investing in the long-term success of families and our community.”
Construction is expected to begin in early 2026, with project completion projected for 2028. Intend Indiana will engage local contractors throughout the building process, further supporting our local economy. Contractors interested in participating can learn more and register at https://intendindiana.org/contractor-registration/.
Project Funding Breakdown:
READI 2.0 LEI Funds: $1,120,000
Local Government Match: $1,144,911
Private Match: $5,024,100
Total Investment: $7,289,011