Lexington City Council approves 2025 Complete Streets initiative to enhance road safety and accessibility

Lexington's City Council took significant steps towards enhancing public safety and community connectivity during their work session on April 22, 2025. A key resolution was passed to approve the fiscal year 2026 budget for the Lexington Fayette County Parking Authority, which includes rate increases set to take effect on September 1, 2025. This decision aims to ensure the sustainability of parking services in the city.

In a pivotal presentation, Brandy Pecher from the mayor's office provided an update on the Complete Streets initiative, emphasizing its importance in transforming Lexington's roadways into safer, more inclusive public spaces. Pecher highlighted that over a third of the community does not rely on cars for transportation, underscoring the need for infrastructure that accommodates pedestrians, cyclists, and transit users. The Complete Streets program aims to address this by redesigning streets to enhance safety and accessibility for all users.

Pecher noted that roadway fatalities are a leading cause of death in Fayette County, surpassing even violent crimes. This alarming statistic reinforces the urgency of the Complete Streets initiative, which seeks to implement safer roadway designs and reduce speeds to prevent accidents. The program's action plan, finalized in December 2023, outlines 39 tasks across four categories, focusing on safety, operations, design, and progress measurement.

Council members expressed strong support for the initiative, with many acknowledging the positive momentum and collaborative efforts underway. They emphasized the importance of public engagement and education to ensure community awareness of the changes being implemented. The council is committed to fostering a safer environment for all residents, recognizing that the success of the Complete Streets initiative will require ongoing investment and collaboration across various departments and community partners.

As Lexington moves forward with these initiatives, the city aims to create a more connected and safer community, reflecting a commitment to improving the quality of life for all its residents. Regular updates on the progress of the Complete Streets initiative will be made available to the public, ensuring transparency and community involvement in this transformative effort.