Kent Lofts is a key cog in the transformation occurring in the city of Bellevue over the past few years.
A major catalyst of the transformation was the creation of the Neighborhood Playbook – a development tool for neighborhoods and cities – by Bellevue residents Kevin Wright and Joe Nickol in 2016, with funding assistance from People’s Liberty. The intent was twofold: to activate neighborhoods by helping residents with grassroots planning and execution, and to help developers with how, and where to enter a specific market.
Through a survey conducted for Bellevue residents via the Neighborhood Playbook, people wanted more bars, restaurants, forms of entertainment and ways to get involved in the community in Bellevue. Thus, a group of residents developed the Old Kentucky Makers Market that brought together music, local microbreweries, local food and makers with an overtly Kentucky brand. The monthly event created a connected, accessible place for residents to come together for evening entertainment that was also family friendly.
Bellevue residents advocate for the Kent Lofts transformation
The Old Kentucky Makers Market and other similar events sparked community involvement from many residents. So much so, that many of the organizers these events went to a Bellevue City Council meeting in late 2017 to advocate on behalf of a zoning change needed for approval of the Kent Lofts Project to move forward. Now, Kent Lofts provides an excellent option for modern, urban living in the heart of the ever-changing Bellevue.
Bellevue now boasts a true sense of community that was catalyzed by residents to create real change through placemaking. Alley parties and pop-up events are the norm, rather than desired, and Kent Lofts residents will have no shortage of opportunities to get involved and make a difference. In fact, two of the people advocating on behalf of Kent Lofts to Bellevue City Council ultimately ended up being elected to the council in 2018. Additionally, a couple involved with the Old Kentucky Makers Market purchased a vacant building on Fairfield Avenue to develop the now very popular Fairfield Market.
Real charge is occurring in Bellevue. Be a part of it with Kent Lofts!
Contact the Kent Lofts leasing team to inquire about availability and more!