Richmond, Ky. – A substantial step has been taken towards addressing the drug epidemic in the community as Richmond secures funding to develop a men’s recovery center. The City Manager, Rob Minerich, hailed the recent announcement as “a big win for Richmond.” This initiative was made possible with the assistance of Congressman Andy Barr, who helped the city obtain a $4.7 million grant from the U.S. Economic Development Administration.
The grant will finance the transformation of an existing building into a recovery center specifically for men, complementing the current women’s facility at Liberty Place. Minerich emphasized the critical need for such a facility, stating, “the one piece missing is the men’s facility.” The center aims to provide up to 40 beds and will be operated by New Vista, an organization committed to delivering services in mental health and substance use for the residents of Central Kentucky.
Minerich pointed out that the new facility will alleviate some pressure from the county jail by offering a suitable space for nonviolent offenders seeking recovery. “Upon recovery, the men will have the tools needed to thrive in a job,” he explained, highlighting the importance of the center’s workforce-ready program.
The grant acquisition process began three years ago, involved collaboration among various entities including New Vista, the Fletcher Group, and the Bluegrass Area Development District. Minerich noted that a property is already under a purchase option, which, while aged and in need of renovation, offers a central and accessible location for the center. Should renovation costs exceed the grant amount, Madison County has committed to sharing the additional expenses.
Plans are underway for a potential phase two of the project that will incorporate workforce development and greenspace, further enhancing the location’s utility. Minerich expressed optimism that the facility would serve not just Richmond, but the entire region, stating, “We have a surplus of money, and we’re able to give back services to the community.”
While a specific timeline for the facility’s operational launch is not yet defined, it is anticipated that the center could be functional within the next 2 to 2.5 years.
