Reimagining a Downtown Lexington Public Space

The Lexington-Fayette Urban County Government is working to transform this urban, 1-acre park in the center of downtown Lexington. This space is highly underutilized, largely avoided by visitors, residents and the downtown workforce. Gresham Smith was by the Prime, Element Design, specifically to lead the vision for how to transform this important public space in a way that is sustainable, equitable and innovative.

Gresham Smith led the concept development and is currently supporting fundraising efforts for this $3 million public space project that will include a variety of amenities and programmable spaces. Phoenix Park directly connects to the Gresham Smith trail project, Town Branch Commons and is part of the larger urban network of public spaces and will connect to residences, offices, the Downtown Library and Courthouse. The project included conceptual & schematic design, detailed cost estimation and community engagement with city staff, stakeholders and potential partners.