Elevating Civic Life Through Policy Change

Lexington, Kentucky, is undergoing significant changes to its public realm. The city’s new 20-year plan prioritizes walkable and affordable neighborhoods, park and greenspace access and climate goals – and an influx of public dollars will support this work. As the city advances this ambitious plan through several policies, Lexington will amplify the impact of investments in the public realm by testing and evaluating the effect of the policies, deeply involving residents in implementation and nurturing local leadership. To support this evaluation, pilot projects and tactical demonstrations will showcase innovative public space options, enabling neighbors to experience design solutions and contribute meaningfully to the future of their city.

"Now more than ever our community is relying on our public spaces for our physical and mental well-being. Equitable access to quality parks, trails and other green spaces has always been a goal for Lexington, and our participation with Reimagining the Civic Commons will allow us to explore more ways to reach that goal."

–Monica Conrad, Director Parks and Recreation, Lexington-Fayette Urban County Government

A Collaborative Effort

Conveners

Blue Grass Community Foundation
CivicLex

Collaborators

City of Lexington
Community Ventures
Downtown Lexington Partnership
Gatton Park on the Town Branch
Lexington Area Metropolitan Planning Organization
Lexington Division of Parks and Recreation
Lexington Division of Planning
Lexington Public Library
Julietta Market
Office of the Mayor
Town Branch Trail, Inc.

The JPB Foundation
John S. and James L. Knight Foundation
The Kresge Foundation
William Penn Foundation