Touring The Nine at Lexington Station: a model for affordable housing

A few weeks ago, SPAAR members and staff had the opportunity to tour The Nine at Lexington Station, a newly opened apartment complex offering an innovative approach to affordable housing. The Nine is a middle-income building, with half of its 304 units reserved for residents earning 60% or less of the Area Median Income (AMI). It's considered a “unicorn” in the affordable housing world—not only because of its scale and quality, but also because it was built without traditional subsidies, relying solely on a special 4d tax classification from the City of Saint Paul.

Since opening in January, The Nine has impressed with both its design and its amenities. Tour attendees were struck by the high-quality finishes and thoughtfully designed spaces throughout the building.

The list of amenities rivals those found in luxury market-rate developments. The Nine features multiple communal lounges for hosting events or casual gatherings, two outdoor spaces—including one with a pool, and a projector screen—and a well-equipped fitness center. Residents also enjoy access to a golf simulator and multiple work-from-home areas, some of which are fully soundproofed. These are just a few of the offerings that create a vibrant, welcoming environment for residents.

Just as important as the shared spaces are the apartments themselves. The units boast quality materials, modern appliances, and a warm, comfortable aesthetic that immediately feels like home.

Projects like The Nine at Lexington Station demonstrate that it is possible to create attractive, affordable housing without sacrificing quality. SPAAR is encouraged by the success of this development and hopes it will serve as a model for similar efforts throughout Saint Paul and the Twin Cities. The need for high-quality, affordable housing in our communities is urgent, and The Nine shows what’s possible when thoughtful design and a smart approach intersect.