Lexington Center Corporation proposes new street layout and parking structure on High Street

In the heart of Lexington, city planners gathered to discuss an ambitious project that aims to reshape a key area near the Lexington Center. The proposal, which centers around the High Street parking lot property at 371 South Broadway and 500 West High Street, seeks to create five new lots and establish a network of interior streets, including Bridal Street A and Private Streets B, C, and D.

As the meeting unfolded, the significance of the location became clear. Directly across from the renowned Rupp Arena, this development is poised to enhance connectivity and accessibility in a bustling urban core. The proposed layout includes access points along major thoroughfares—West High Street, West Maxwell Street, and South Broadway—though the project requires waivers for access spacing due to existing urban conditions.

City staff expressed support for the waivers, noting that the proposed access points do not meet the standard 1,600 feet spacing requirement along these principal arterials. However, they argued that the urban context justifies the deviations, emphasizing that the changes would not adversely impact public health, safety, or welfare. The project aims to facilitate infill and redevelopment, aligning with the city’s goals for innovative design in large-scale developments.

The discussion also touched on pedestrian access, with plans to include sidewalks on one side of certain streets due to space constraints. The developers have worked closely with city officials to ensure that pedestrian connectivity remains a priority, even as they navigate the challenges of existing infrastructure.

As the meeting progressed, questions arose about the existing Patterson Street, which currently serves as a private road through the parking lots. The developers clarified that this access would be maintained as a private easement, allowing for continued traffic flow into the future multistory parking structure planned for Lot 1.

With the Planning Commission's approval of the waivers and the overall plan, this project stands to significantly transform the area, enhancing both functionality and aesthetics. As Lexington continues to grow, developments like this one will play a crucial role in shaping the city’s landscape and improving the quality of life for its residents. The outcome of this meeting marks a step forward in the ongoing evolution of Lexington’s urban environment, promising a vibrant future for this central hub.