Lexington breaks ground on first public river park

LEXINGTON, Ky. ( FOX 56 ) — As nicer weather approaches, you can’t help but want to be outdoors and explore. The city broke ground on Lexington’s first public river park.

“I know that there are people all over town who cannot wait to put their kayak or their canoe in this water,” said Mayor Linda Gorton.

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A milestone for the future, as the city broke ground on Kelley’s landing.

“Kelly’s landing will provide new opportunities for recreation in Lexington. There will be walking trails, and those who love kayaks and canoes will have a place to get onto the Kentucky River and travel 12 miles from lock to lock,” Gorton said.

With the money raised by the Fund for Greater Lexington, the park will open ahead of schedule and meet the recreational needs of the community.

“Our mission is to identify and incubate projects that have the potential to change the trajectory of this city and improve the quality of life for all in our community, not just for this generation, but for generations to come,” said Noa Gimelli, co-chair of the Fund for Greater Lexington.

The 30-acre park includes green space, wooded areas, river access, and scenic views of the river. A lot of work has been done to prepare the site since the city purchased it in 2022, including demolition of unsafe buildings and removing debris from the shoreline.

“The park will have a natural areas designation, including a mission to preserve the beauty of the region, highlighting important historical features and cultural connections, and providing opportunities for visitors seeking outdoor adventure,” Monica Conrad, director of Lexington Parks & Recreation, said.

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The park is named after the late John Kelly, who owned the land and ran a general store there in the 1920s.

“I began working on this project my first day in office, in the mayor’s office, and I am thrilled that it’s finally happening. Monica Conrad and I started a conversation, which led to negotiations with the Kelly family in 2019, my first year,” Gorton said.

The park, which is just below the Clays Ferry Bridge, is scheduled to open this fall.

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