Lexington City Council is taking significant steps to improve parking accessibility and awareness for students and visitors. During the meeting on July 17, 2025, council members discussed a proposal to install 15 new parking signs throughout downtown Lexington, aimed at enhancing communication about available public parking options.

The initiative, driven by student representatives from Washington and Lee University and the Virginia Military Institute, emphasizes the importance of informing students about public parking lots and encouraging them to utilize these spaces. The proposed signs will not only replace outdated signage but also target key entrance points to the city, making it easier for newcomers to navigate parking options.

Council members highlighted the potential of using social media and email alerts from campus public safety offices to effectively communicate parking information to students. A suggestion was made to incorporate QR codes on the new signs, allowing users to access a digital map of parking locations directly from their smartphones.

In addition to the signage improvements, discussions touched on the historical names of parking lots, such as the Firehouse Lot, which may confuse visitors unfamiliar with the area. While some council members suggested renaming these lots for clarity, student representatives defended the charm and historical significance of the current names.

The council also examined parking demand during peak hours, noting that the busiest times occur between 11 AM and 1 PM. A review of a previous parking plan indicated that while there are sufficient parking spaces, better wayfinding could alleviate congestion during these peak periods.

As the city moves forward with these proposals, the council is optimistic that improved signage and communication will enhance the overall parking experience in downtown Lexington, benefiting both residents and visitors alike.