Davis Park officially opens in downtown Lexington

LEXINGTON, Ky. (ABC36 NEWS NOW) –

Mayor Linda Gorton, along with Kentucky Transportation Secretary Jim Gray, Lexington Community Land Trust representatives, Councilmembers, and Lexington Parks & Recreation staff, celebrated the grand opening of Davis Park this morning. Located along Oliver Lewis Way, the park is a testament to community collaboration and serves as a vibrant addition to the downtown area.

Funded jointly by the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet and the city, Davis Park replaces a previous park that was removed due to infrastructure upgrades and road construction. Mayor Gorton expressed gratitude to all involved parties for their contributions to the project, emphasizing the importance of parks in creating vibrant neighborhoods.

Kentucky Transportation Secretary Jim Gray highlighted the state’s commitment to holistic infrastructure development, ensuring that projects like Davis Park benefit both motorists and local residents. Councilmember Jennifer Reynolds echoed this sentiment, underscoring the significance of parks as communal spaces that foster unity and hope for the future.

For Byron Mitchell, president of the Lexington Community Land Trust and a longtime resident of the Davis Park neighborhood, the park symbolizes community building and transformation. With input from neighbors and citywide surveys, Davis Park was designed to meet the diverse needs of its users, featuring amenities such as a playground, basketball court, multi-use trail, and shelter.

Monica Conrad, director of Parks & Recreation, expressed excitement for the future of Lexington’s park system, citing the collaborative efforts of partners and the community in bringing Davis Park to fruition. With its array of recreational opportunities, Davis Park is poised to become a cherished gathering place for residents and visitors alike, reflecting the city’s commitment to enhancing quality of life for all.