Discussion resurfaced this week about changing some downtown Lexington streets from one way to two way traffic. No firm votes on the matter were taken during Tuesday's city council committee meeting.
Talk of converting a number of one way downtown streets to two way has been around for years at Lexington City Hall. Back in 2009, the council passed a resolution in favor of making changes. But the sticking point has been which streets to tackle first. Vice Mayor Steve Kay favors the concept, but believes there's a bigger issue to consider. "The question in my mind is not about whether we do two way streets or not," said Kay. "The question is how do we improve the walkability and livability in the downtown in particular?"
Although no action was taken, focus currently rests with streets including North Limestone and North Upper. Council members are considering spending $100,000 for design work.
Fifth District Council Member Bill Farmer says there's still some hesitation on moving forward with the project without more public feedback. "You got to let people know, we're really, really getting down to it now," Farmer said. "We've studied it for long enough. Now it's time to potentially turn around and do it. But, you've got to design it and make it happen. Council wants to make sure the link between ourselves and constituents is a strong one before making any changes."
Farmer says there's more buy in now for converting streets like North Limestone and North Upper, rather than Main, Vine, or even the Woodland triangle near Woodland Park.
Council Member Shevawn Akers says notices need to go directly to those residents who could see a change in traffic flow. "Every single person shouldn't have to rely on me, or you, or the Herald-Leader to tell them that their street might be changing," Akers said. "So, I think that's one thing that we should do first and get real public feedback and real input and hear from those who would be affected."
Traffic Engineering Director Dowell Hoskins Squier told council members that community meetings have previously been held. No votes were taken during the meeting.
