Above: Progress so far at the Chestnut Ridge high-ground community – 56 new homes built by four local nonprofit builders! 17 of the homes have been built by HDA in Phase One of the project.
Chestnut Ridge Celebration Showcases Major Progress
HDA Completes First 17 Homes in Knott County High-Ground Subdivision
LEBURN, Ky. (June 5, 2026) – The Housing Development Alliance (HDA) hosted its Chestnut Ridge Celebration: Built on Higher Ground on Fri., June 5, 2026, highlighting the completion of its first 17 new homes in this transformative new neighborhood in Knott County.
Located near Hindman and the Knott County Sportsplex, Chestnut Ridge, which is one of the state’s high-ground communities for Eastern Kentucky flood survivors, represents a major investment in long-term housing stability and disaster recovery in the region. To date, all 17 homes built by HDA are under roof, with 14 families already moved into their new homes.
The event brought together community members, local and state leaders, and key partners to celebrate progress and highlight the collaboration that made the development possible.
"This is what's possible when local builders, partners, and communities come together with a shared vision," said HDA Executive Director Scott McReynolds. "Chestnut Ridge is not just a high-ground community - it's a model for how we can build stronger, more resilient communities across Eastern Kentucky."
The project reflects a shared commitment to helping families recover, remain in the region, and build futures in safe, affordable, high-quality housing. It’s also a unique collaboration among regional builders (HDA is one of four builders working on the site), nonprofit partners, and funders, including support from Team Kentucky and federal support secured by Congressman Hal Rogers.
“This project is about more than new homes,” McReynolds said. “It’s about what can happen when people come together – with determination, with partnership, and with a shared belief in what this region can be.”
HDA recently broke ground on its next phase of housing development on the site, where it will build another 10 new homes in the coming weeks with many more to follow.
McReynolds noted that the development’s growth proves that with the right resources, Eastern Kentuckians can build not just houses, but opportunity, stability, and hope.
Event attendees toured homes, met new homeowners, and connected with the organizations contributing to the project.
To support the work of the Housing Development Alliance, please visit our fundraising page.
