Lockheed Martin Expands Operations in Lexington Creating 70 New Jobs

The Lexington City Council convened on August 20, 2025, to discuss significant developments impacting the community, including the expansion of Lockheed Martin's operations and the formation of a new subcommittee aimed at enhancing local governance.

The meeting commenced with an announcement regarding Lockheed Martin's expansion at the University of Kentucky's Coldstream Research Campus. This initiative will introduce 70 full-time jobs and is part of a broader partnership between Lockheed Martin and the university, which has been in place for over a decade. The new Engineering Center of Excellence is designed to foster innovation and collaboration, supporting operations not only in Lexington but across Lockheed Martin's global network. Officials emphasized the importance of this facility in recruiting and developing engineering talent, which is crucial for both the company and the U.S. Department of Defense.

Following the discussion on Lockheed Martin, the council turned its attention to the establishment of a new subcommittee focused on improving the city's boards and commissions. Co-chaired by Council members Shayla Lynch and Emma Curtis, the subcommittee aims to ensure that these bodies reflect the diversity of Fayette County and operate more efficiently. The initiative arose from a comprehensive review conducted by CivicLex, which identified areas for improvement in representation, training, and transparency.

Council member Lynch highlighted the importance of community involvement in this process, encouraging residents to apply for positions on boards and commissions. The subcommittee's first meeting is scheduled for August 28, 2025, where members will begin addressing the recommendations from CivicLex's report.

In summary, the meeting underscored the city's commitment to economic growth through partnerships with major corporations like Lockheed Martin, while also prioritizing community representation and governance efficiency through the newly formed subcommittee.