The Columbus Metropolitan Library has announced plans to sell a parcel of vacant land just north of its Shepard Branch at 850 N. Nelson Road to Homeport, a local, non-profit affordable housing developer, for $480,000.

Library officials said the profit from the sale will be added to Metropolitan Library’s capital projects fund.

“We believe this location is prime for redevelopment,” said Metropolitan Library CEO Lauren Hagan. “It presents a unique opportunity to meet a critical community need — more affordable housing.”

In October 2024, the Metropolitan Library issued a public request for proposal to invite prospective developers to submit proposals for constructing affordable housing on two vacant tracts located at the corner of North Nelson Road and Ridgeway Avenue.

In May, the Metropolitan Library’s seven-member board of trustees approved the library’s recommendation of Homeport’s proposal for the land. Library leaders said they hope to finalize the sale in the coming months.

Homeport leaders said they plan to work with community organizations on the development’s design. They plan to offer homes for sale and rent on the site.

“We’re excited to work on this project and provide more affordable housing,” said Leah F. Evans, Homeport president and CEO. “We credit Columbus Metropolitan Library for thinking broadly about the community’s needs.”

The Metropolitan Library originally purchased the land in 2013 for the construction of its Shepard Branch, which opened in 2016.

In February, the Metropolitan Library and Columbus Recreation and Parks announced a collaboration that will transform a portion of the Alum Creek Trail alongside the sShepard Branch into an interactive park highlighting its historical significance along the Underground Railroad.

Homeport is a non-profit developer of affordable housing in central Ohio, having served the area since 1987. Homeport owns 3,000 affordable rental apartments and homes in 47 communities.

The company’s 6,500 residents, families and seniors have access to a range of services, from after-school programming to emergency assistance for rent and utilities.

Homeport partnerships also link its residents to food, furniture, employment assistance, and medical and mental-health services.