A housing and retail study of two Lexington corridors near the University of Kentucky is under review by city council members. The 110 page consultant’s report focuses on Euclid Avenue, Avenue of Champions, and a portion of South Limestone. Council briefly studied the report this week. Jonathon Hollinger, who works in Planning, Development, and Preservation, said consultants interviewed area residents, students, and business owners. “And the highlights of that public engagement included protecting the neighborhoods from conversion to student housing, creating diverse housing options that serve more than just students and longtime residents, but also young professionals and graduate students,” said Hollinger.
Downtown Development Authority President Jeff Fugate said the study didn’t focus on land use or vision, but instead, realistic housing and retail options. He told council there’s an increased demand for rental property near UK. “You’ve got nontenured faculty that may or may not be here in five years,” said Fugate. “You’ve got medical residents who may or may not be here in five years. You’ve got graduate students who may or may not be here in four years. They don’t need to buy a house, but they need somewhere to live. So, there’s market opportunity there.”
Fugate says the study also delved into the types of retail best suited for the two corridors. Council took no action on the report, but referred it to committee.?
