Bluegrass Airport proposes major upgrades including 800 new parking spaces

Improvements at Bluegrass Airport took center stage during the Lexington Planning Commission meeting on May 8, 2025, as officials discussed a significant expansion plan aimed at enhancing airport facilities and accommodating growing passenger traffic. The proposed project includes the construction of new administrative offices, a relocated aviation museum, a fuel depot, and an expanded car rental area, alongside the addition of 800 paid parking spaces.

Daniel Crum from the planning staff outlined the scope of the project, emphasizing its alignment with the comprehensive plan for the area. The airport, classified as a rural activity center, operates under different zoning regulations than typical agricultural land, allowing for these developments. The expansion is seen as a crucial step in supporting Lexington's tourism and transportation infrastructure.

However, the proposal sparked a lively debate among commissioners regarding environmental concerns. Some members expressed apprehension about the impact of increased parking space on climate goals, highlighting the need for landscaping and shade structures to mitigate heat island effects. Commissioner Judy Davis raised questions about the parking layout and its proximity to the new aviation museum, suggesting that a more central location could boost tourism.

Tyler Miller, the airport's Chief Operating Officer, defended the expansion as a necessary response to a surge in passenger numbers, noting that the airport had been forced to park cars in overflow areas due to capacity issues. He acknowledged the need for future sustainability measures, including potential solar canopies over parking areas, but clarified that the current project is primarily focused on immediate capacity needs.

The Planning Commission's role is to provide recommendations rather than approvals, and while the staff recommended moving forward with the project, concerns about environmental compliance and community impact were raised. The discussion highlighted the balance between accommodating growth and adhering to environmental standards, setting the stage for ongoing dialogue as the airport's master plan unfolds.