Council Approves Controversial Use Permit for Rockbridge Building

In a recent government meeting, the council unanimously approved a conditional use permit (CUP) for the Rockbridge building located at 9 through 17 South Main Street, allowing Washington and Lee University (W&L) to occupy the space for educational and public assembly purposes. The decision comes amid concerns from some community members regarding the potential impact on downtown Lexington's character and business diversity.

The approved CUP permits W&L to utilize the lower level of the building for public assembly and the upper and mid-levels for administrative offices. The council emphasized that the storefronts facing Main Street would remain retail spaces, which are a by-right use in the C1 zoning district. This decision follows a recommendation from the planning commission, which held multiple public hearings to assess the proposal.

During the meeting, community member Tina Miller expressed concerns about what she termed \"institutional creep,\" arguing that W&L's expansion could diminish the diversity of businesses in downtown Lexington. She highlighted the importance of maintaining a vibrant mix of retail and restaurants to attract visitors and residents alike. Miller also raised issues regarding parking, noting that the influx of new offices could exacerbate existing parking challenges in the area.

The council acknowledged the concerns raised but ultimately decided to move forward with the permit, citing the need for educational facilities and the benefits they bring to the community. The meeting concluded with a call for further discussion on how to balance institutional growth with the preservation of downtown's unique character.