Mayor Linda Gorton, Councilmember Liz Sheehan, and Lexington Parks & Recreation staff today cut a ribbon to officially open a new concessions and restroom building at Ecton Park.
“We’re excited to cut the ribbon on this new building at one of our city’s more popular neighborhood parks,” Mayor Linda Gorton said. “This is another example of the many exciting new updates happening at parks across Lexington. Our Parks & Recreation team has been working hard to bring needed updates and amenities to parks and facilities all over town.”
The new multi-purpose building features a covered concession stand, as well as updated restrooms to support activities at the active park. The project was funded through American Rescue Plan funds. The City dedicated $10 million in ARPA funds to projects identified in Lexington Parks & Recreation’s Master Plan, which highlights needed updates in parks citywide.
“This project has been years in the making, and thanks to the American Rescue Plan, the City had the resources to get us across the finish line,” said Councilmember Liz Sheehan, whose district includes Ecton Park. “This new facility will serve our neighbors for years to come, and will greatly enhance Ecton Park; I deeply appreciate all of the hard work that has gone into ensuring the success of this much-needed project.”
Ecton Park is one of the more active neighborhood parks in the city. With four tennis courts, a playground, two baseball fields used by Eastern Little League, a half basketball court, and lots of greenspace, it is a popular recreation and leisure destination. It is also one of the host locations for the beloved Big Band & Jazz concert series, a free music series sponsored by Parks & Recreation that brings local and regional jazz, big band, and swing musicians to the park during July and August (the series begins at Moondance Amphitheater during May and June).
“Ecton Park remains an important staple for the surrounding neighborhoods, as well as a destination for the city,” said Parks & Recreation Director, Monica Conrad. “This building will not only support the nearby baseball fields used by Eastern Little League, but will also be new amenities that can be utilized for our popular Big Band & Jazz series and other recreational sports.”
Parks & Recreation, a division of the Lexington-Fayette Urban County Government, oversees the programming, maintenance, and development of over 100 city parks and natural areas, six pools, five golf courses, community centers, recreational programs, and three arts venues. To find out more, follow @LexKYParks on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, or sign up for the email newsletter.
