Lexington city leaders are exploring the possibility of developing a new downtown master plan. A discussion later this fall on funding may determine its feasibility. The estimated consultant cost of about a half-million dollars will be a topic when Council members discuss how to spend fund balance money. The matter was discussed in committee last week. Third District Council Member Hannah LeGris said such a plan could help guide future development with attention to neighborhoods. “We want to make sure it’s a plan that is actionable and one that taps into our needs for housing, for safety, for business elevation, and for overall vitality,” said LeGris. The last such plan was done in 2006. If funding is agreed to, LeGris envisioned at least a year-long process with much opportunity for stakeholder comment. Council Member Dave Sevigny asked that streets and transportation be a focus. “And particularly things like closed streets to vehicles, making some streets pedestrian streets or bike streets. I want to be thinking about two-way streets. I want to be thinking about where City Hall is located,” said Sevigny. Vice Mayor Dan Wu and First District Council Member Tayna Fogle both stressed the importance of not leaving downtown residents behind in the formation of a plan. LeGris said there will be plenty of opportunities for stakeholder comment including neighborhoods and businesses. A new downtown master plan could be incorporated into the Urban County Government Comprehensive Plan. ** WEKU is working hard to be a leading source for public service, and fact-based journalism. Monthly supporters are the top funding source for this growing nonprofit news organization. Please join others in your community who support WEKU by making your donation. The post Lexington city leaders eyeing a new master plan for the downtown area appeared first on The Lexington Times.