Garland County Habitat for Humanity seeks approval for new homes on Gaines Avenue

The Hot Springs Board of Directors has taken a significant step towards enhancing affordable housing in the community by approving a development plan that will allow Garland County Habitat for Humanity to construct two single-family homes on a 0.19-acre lot located at 514 Gaines Avenue. This decision, made during the board's meeting on June 26, 2025, aligns with the city's housing strategy aimed at providing attainable housing options for residents.

The approved plan involves dividing an existing lot, which measures 8,442 square feet, into two separate lots, each designated for a three-bedroom detached home. While the proposed lot sizes of 4,221 square feet fall slightly below the minimum requirement for the RN-5 zoning district, the board granted exceptions based on the project's alignment with community needs and existing neighborhood characteristics.

Cathy Selman, the Planning and Development Director, highlighted that the development plan meets nearly all zoning requirements and will not significantly impact local infrastructure. The homes will be designed to fit seamlessly into the existing neighborhood, with each lot having its own street frontage on Gaines and Mayflower Streets. This configuration is expected to minimize traffic congestion and enhance accessibility.

The project is part of a broader initiative to address housing shortages in Hot Springs, with Habitat for Humanity emphasizing its commitment to providing affordable housing through innovative financing options, including a 25-year, 0% mortgage for buyers. The board's approval of this development plan not only supports the construction of new homes but also reinforces the city's ongoing efforts to revitalize and improve housing availability for its residents.

As the project moves forward, the community can anticipate the positive impact of these new homes, which are set to contribute to the local housing landscape and provide much-needed options for families in Hot Springs.