Behind-the-scenes work continues to merge two downtown Lexington business-focused groups. Representatives of both express support for the idea, but admit it will take more effort to get it done.
The Downtown Development Authority and Downtown Lexington Corporation both focus onbuilding up the inner core of town through additional commercial business and activities. Leaders of the organizations offered an update to a council committee last week.
Afterward, Development Authority Board Chair Tom Harris said consolidation is primarily about enhancing synergy. “We’ve never said this was about an elimination of services or really cost cutting because the Downtown Development Authority and the Downtown Lexington Corporation both have very distinct missions,” Harris said.
Harris believes one umbrella organization would send a strong message to developers and those interesting in investing downtown.
Downtown Lexington Corporation Executive Committee member Steve Kelly says coordination could carry event and business benefits.
Kelly says some 400 organizations are members of the DLC.
The city council is pushing for the merger.
