WQIO Ohio's Super Station
One of the largest residential developments proposed in Mount Vernon in recent years is taking another major step forward this week as City Council considers legislation designed to help move the project toward construction.
Known as Arista Villas, the proposed subdivision would bring approximately 100 new single-family homes to nearly 40 acres along Vernonview Drive (State Route 768) on the city’s east side. If approved, the development would help address Mount Vernon’s growing demand for new housing while extending streets and utilities into an area expected to see future growth.
Developer Joshua Williams, working with KNG Equity, says the goal is to create an owner-occupied neighborhood aimed at first-time and entry-level homebuyers.
Current plans call for homes ranging from 1,200 to 1,600 square feet with three or four bedrooms and two-and-a-half bathrooms. Developers have previously said they hope homes will be priced around $350,000, making them more attainable than many newly constructed homes currently on the market.
The proposal has changed significantly since it was first introduced. Initial plans presented in 2024 included a mix of apartments, townhomes and single-family houses. After receiving feedback from city officials and residents, the proposal was redesigned into a neighborhood consisting entirely of single-family homes.
Before homes can be built, the city and developer must address significant infrastructure needs. Council is expected to consider creating a Tax Increment Financing (TIF) district and expanding the Mount Vernon New Community Authority to help finance public improvements associated with the development. Those improvements include new streets, sidewalks, water lines, sanitary sewers and stormwater facilities.
City officials have also required additional street connections beyond the subdivision’s original single entrance. Future roadway connections are intended to improve traffic flow, provide better emergency access and accommodate additional development in the area.
Mount Vernon leaders have repeatedly identified housing as one of the city’s biggest long-term challenges. As Knox County continues to experience population growth and employers seek to attract workers, officials say increasing the supply of owner-occupied housing is critical to supporting economic development. New residential construction has become a priority for both city leaders and the business community.
Supporters of Arista Villas say the project could provide housing opportunities for young families, professionals and residents looking to purchase newly built homes without leaving the community.
The legislation before Mount Vernon City Council this week focuses primarily on financing and infrastructure rather than final construction approval. If council approves the measures, additional engineering work, utility construction and final development approvals will still be required before home construction can begin. If completed as proposed, Arista Villas would become one of Mount Vernon’s largest new residential neighborhoods in recent years and represent a significant investment in the city’s future housing supply.
