The massive federally mandated sewer improvement program in Lexington includes construction of several large water storage tanks. Plans for one such holding tank were discussed Tuesday at City Hall. The tank will be built near the popular Legacy Trail. Landscape Architect Gena Wirth says the goal is to try to keep the massive tank from standing out too much. “You still see it," said Wirth. "It’s impossible to screen the tank entirely with vegetation. But, the point is this is part of Lexington’s water quality infrastructure and a huge amount of investment is being put into it. And it can be of benefit to users of the Legacy Trail itself.”
In addition to trees, plans call for adding amenities including restrooms, a water fountain, a bike rack, and seating area. Still, Council member Shevawn Akers says it’s not a site for leisure and recreation. “We’re not building a park," Akers said. "We’re building bathrooms and rest area for those along the trail. It’s not a playground, it’s not a destination park.”
Division of Water Quality Director Charlie Martin says it’s important for any landscaping to go hand in hand with tank construction. “I would like to have it resolved as soon as possible so I can direct the contractor who is building the tank to conduct his work in a way that allows a landscape person to come in and do the finish work without doing it twice,” explained Martin.
The upkeep of the tank-side amenities would be the responsibility of Lexington’s Parks Department. Some council members, including Jennifer Scutchfield, expressed concern about the department taking on maintenance of the area, when there are other pressing park needs.?
