LOCKHART, Texas (KXAN) — The Amherst Group, a Texas-based real estate investment, development and operating platform, announced the construction of a new community in Lockhart. The community, named “Firefly”, will bring 145 housing units to the region.

Amherst said she would create these homes through her StudioBuilt Modular Building Processthat is, a building is constructed off-site, but in half the time.

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Modular construction

The company said modular construction removes obstacles such as weather, trade delays and supply chain issues.

“These homes can be built approximately 50 percent faster than traditional homes due to stricter quality controls during the construction process, in addition to being more durable,” Amherst said.

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StudioBuilt homes are built at Amherst Studio Housing in Cuero, southeast of San Antonio. The homes will then be installed on site in Lockhart.

“The opening of our new Firefly community generates much-needed housing supply for homebuyers in the vibrant and growing town of Lockhart,” said David Schwarz, Amherst commercial real estate manager.

Meet a housing need

Up For Growth, a non-profit organization addressing the housing shortage and affordability crisis, released a recent analysis that details housing underproduction across the country.

According to the analysis, Texas is second only to California in housing underproduction. The report shows Texas has not reached the 306,000 housing units needed by 2023.

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In response to that, Amherst said it was increasing the housing supply in key metropolitan areas across the state, like Lockhart.

The company said these projects will all use Amherst’s StudioBuilt business.

The Growth of Lockhart

The Texas Population Center recently released updated population estimates. The report shows Lockhart had a population of 17,146 at the start of 2024.

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According to the center, the city has seen a population increase of 19.2% over the past four years.

“As Lockhart continues to experience expansive employment and population growth, it is crucial that we have innovative construction partners who can generate a housing supply for new and existing Lockhart residents,” Lew said White, Mayor of Lockhart. “We are excited to welcome StudioBuilt homes to our community.”

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