This connectivity study involves several partners:

– Lexington Area Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO)

– Lexington Fayette Urban County Government (LFUCG)

– University of Kentucky (UK)

The study will explore options for building a continued shared-use trail along the Virginia/Red Mile/Forbes corridor. A shared-use trail would connect UK’s campus at Virginia Avenue and Limestone Street all the way north near the intersection of Forbes Road and Leestown Road.

Right now, there are few direct connections between New Circle Road and Oliver Lewis Way. In the MPO’s Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan, the Virginia/Red Mile/Forbes corridor is named as a critical link for biking and walking. UK’s Bicycle Master Plan also identifies a stretch of Virginia Avenue as needing to be more bike-friendly and walkable. The whole corridor changes character as it passes through different neighborhoods and business areas. This study will consider how to best accommodate the shifts and different uses.

We know from recent public outreach efforts that the community wants more choices for getting around. In general, most people think walkable, bikeable, and connected streets should be a priority. This trail study is part of the big picture effort to achieve this. There is student housing, single-family housing, commercial business, and industry along this corridor. There will also be new development as UK and the city continue to grow. We want to enhance safety and accessibility so that this area and our whole community can thrive!