Mayor Linda Gorton, Councilmember Hannah LeGris, Lexington Parks & Recreation staff, donors, and stakeholders officially kicked off construction this morning of a reimagined Phoenix Park.
“We are so excited to get this work underway,” Gorton said. “Phoenix Park sits at the historical center of our city, at the corner of Main and Limestone streets. We’re planning incredible amenities and features for all to enjoy.”
The city is using a mix of public and private funds for the work on the one-acre park, showcasing its importance to the community, and to those who work and live downtown, Gorton said. The Knight Foundation Donor Advised Fund at Blue Grass Community Foundation provided funding for the new stage at the park.
Third District Councilmember Hannah LeGris, whose district includes the park, said, “By investing in this initiative, we are showing you that Phoenix Park will be for everyone. Whether you're visiting the library and playground with your family, traveling along Town Branch Commons, visiting our downtown on a trip, having your lunch by the stage, or bringing your furry friends out to play every day – this park is for you.”
The new Phoenix Park will include many new features, as well as enhanced upgrades to current offerings at the park.
“As one of our downtown, urban parks, Phoenix Park is a critical part of our parks system,” said Monica Conrad, Director of Lexington Parks & Recreation. “Once the reimagined park is complete, it will feature new play equipment, an interactive fog area, adult bench swings, perforated metal shade structures, a performance stage area, an improved dog park, and locations for future public art. We can’t wait to roll out this reinvented space for all to enjoy.”
Construction is expected to be complete by early 2025, with a ribbon-cutting to reopen the park Spring 2025.
