Real estate developer MS Bardstown Road LLC intends to build a mixed-use project on two historic properties in The Highlands area of Louisville, Ky., that will include self-storage, retail and an Airbnb rental. The company acquired 1300 and 1306 Bardstown Road earlier this year for $950,000. A conditional-use permit is required for the self-storage component, according to the source.

A public hearing to discuss the proposal is scheduled for Thursday, but some residents have already expressed their displeasure. Kristen Millwood, president of the Tyler Park Neighborhood Association, said it is “grossly out of character for the area and not necessary.” The Highlands is known for an eclectic mix of boutiques, nightspots, restaurants and shops.

Regardless of the public feedback MS Bardstown receives this week, it will continue to pursue the self-storage use permit, according to representative Jeff Sleadd, who noted the company could consider various retail uses, such as a restaurant, if it’s economically advantageous. Parking limitations will play a role on what the developer ultimately proposes, he told the source. Acquiring more property nearby is also an option.

Until recently, Sterling Beer planned to develop the two parcels into a brewery and taproom. The sale of the properties was controversial because Sterling acquired both from the city in 2016 for less than their appraised amount. The company pocketed about $525,000 by selling them, the source reported.

It’s not clear from the report if MS Bardstown plans to use the existing structures on the properties for all or some of its proposed uses.

Source:
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