Ground broken for upscale KY apartments

NEWPORT, Ky. - By summer 2013, developers in Newport, Ky., hope that new residential units at "Vue 180" will be available, alongside the SouthShore Condominiums.

Newport officials held a groundbreaking ceremony Thursday to celebrate the second phase of the $15.6 project.

Vue 180 will consist of 93 one and two bedroom rental apartments. The apartments will range in size from 630 square feet to 1,200 square feet and range in price from $1.60 per square foot to $2 per square foot.

Unit finishes will be very upscale, with hardwood floors, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, brushed nickel fixtures, energy star front loaded washer and dryers, and patios or balconies.

The four-story building will have community amenities like a club room with full kitchen, an outdoor deck with grill and fireplace and a fitness facility.

Developers say there has been an increase in consumers preferring to rent rather than own and that many young professionals have been preferring to stay in the city and urban areas.

"Vue 180 will be a great addition to urban living here in Newport,” said Newport Mayor Jerry Peluso. “Residents will have convenient access to national sporting events, nightlife entertainment, the arts, restaurants, and many other entertainment venues, all within 10 minutes of the project.”