Metro West Housing Solutions has broken ground on Indy Street Flats, a 115-unit affordable housing project on 2.9 acres at 1440 Independence St. in Lakewood.

The focal point of the $37M project is the 68-year-old Lakewood Masonic Lodge, one of the oldest buildings in the historic Eiber neighborhood.

“The Masonic lodge is an architectural gem,” Metro West Housing Solutions Director of Development Brendalee Conners said. “We’re so pleased that the structure can now live on for generations to come and will be enjoyed in a new way.”

The lodge will be transformed to contain 19 micro-units. Next to the Lodge, Metro West will construct a new building to hold 84 multi-bedroom units and the adjacent Belmont Manor property will be renovated into 12 two-bedroom units. The apartments will be available to individuals and families that earn 30% to 60% of the area median income. The flats will be ready for move-in by late next year.

Amenities at Indy Street Flats, designed by Shopworks Architecture and being built by Taylor Kohrs, will include community gardens, a fitness room, a play area, a business center, energy-efficient appliances, parking, free WiFi and on-site property management and resident services.

“These apartments will help ease the burden of rising rents in Lakewood,” Metro West Executive Director and CEO Tami Fischer said. “We’re grateful for the support from the Eiber Neighborhood Association and the city of Lakewood to bring safe, high-quality affordable housing to Lakewood residents. We will work diligently to ensure that Indy Street Flats is an effort that the community can be proud of.”