Groundbreaking Ushers in Change for Overlooked Community (Image Credits: Flickr)
Las Vegas – A ceremonial groundbreaking in the Historic Westside neighborhood highlighted fresh momentum for an area long ignored by developers.
Groundbreaking Ushers in Change for Overlooked Community
Developer Sam Cherry led the event on February 25 for the Good Word Social Club, a project poised to breathe new life into the segregated-era enclave.[1][2]
The Historic Westside endured decades without major private investment as growth focused elsewhere in the valley. City leaders have discussed revitalization for generations, but substantive progress emerged only recently. Mayor Shelley Berkley attended the ceremony and praised the effort as “nothing short of extraordinary.”[1]
Councilwoman Shondra Summers-Armstrong, whose ward covers the area, emphasized respect for local history. The site honors the legacy of the former Greater New Jerusalem Baptist Church, where community gatherings once thrived.
shareWESTSIDE Apartments Nearing Completion
Next door to the new commercial space, Cherry’s five-story shareWESTSIDE complex stands months from opening. The 104-unit building targets workforce housing for younger professionals near downtown and the Strip.[3]
All units feature one-bedroom layouts of about 580 square feet. Construction advanced steadily since Cherry closed on the city-owned land in fall 2024 for a nominal $6. The city approved the sale in 2022 to spur economic growth.
- Coworking spaces for remote work
- Fitness center for residents
- Movie screening room for gatherings
- Ground-floor retail exceeding 7,000 square feet
Eighty-four units carry covenants limiting rents and increases, addressing affordability needs. Interest lists opened at a recent local block party.
Good Word Social Club Set to Energize the Block
The two-story, nearly 9,000-square-foot venue will host food vendors, a bar, entertainment, and private dining. Cherry described it as a complement to the apartments, fostering community ties.[2]
Design elements include indoor-outdoor seating, a live entertainment stage, and four stalls for emerging food businesses. Construction costs approach $9 million, with completion targeted for late 2026. The Las Vegas Redevelopment Agency leases the space at $3 per square foot monthly and plans a request for proposals to select an operator.
Strong City Backing Drives Projects Forward
Officials committed $8.2 million for tenant improvements across both developments. The Redevelopment Agency handles subleasing for retail and the social club, ensuring viability.
Cherry, CEO of Cherry Development, expressed optimism: “We’re confident it’s going to be special.” His firm previously built share-branded housing in the Arts District and Fremont areas, applying similar strategies here.[1]
| Project | Size | Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| shareWESTSIDE | 104 units | May 2026 |
| Good Word Social Club | 9,000 sq ft | Q4 2026 |
Key Takeaways
- First major private housing in Historic Westside in decades.
- City partnership provides funding and leasing support.
- Projects blend housing, retail, and community spaces.
These initiatives promise to anchor lasting revitalization in the Historic Westside, blending history with modern amenities. What do you think about this neighborhood’s future? Tell us in the comments.
