Metro Lex News

Mayor Linda Gorton, Councilmembers, and Lexington Parks & Recreation staff officially broke ground on a new playground at Gainesway Park. The Mayor expressed excitement, stating, "We are very excited about this fun new playground coming to Gainesway Park." The playground is expected to open in late spring and will offer multiple motion play pieces, more swings, and a new climbing feature, making it more interactive and accessible for families and kids in the neighborhood.

Councilmember Fred Brown, whose district includes Gainesway Park, highlighted the importance of the project, saying, "This is one of many needed changes coming to the Gainesway Park." He extended gratitude to fellow councilmembers, the private sector, and the Lexington-Fayette Housing Authority for their support in making the playground a reality.

Parks & Recreation Director, Monica Conrad, emphasized the collaborative effort behind the project, mentioning, "American Rescue Plan Act funds, and funds from councilmembers and donors, have allowed us to make some much-needed upgrades to playgrounds, facilities, and parks across the city." She also shared that the new playground at Gainesway Park was designed based on feedback from kids who visit Tates Creek Community Center and Gainesway Park, ensuring features that children selected themselves.

The funding for the Gainesway Park playground came from a mix of sources, including the American Rescue Plan Act funds, contributions from Councilmembers, and private donations from Employment Solutions and Ohio Capital Corporation on behalf of the Lexington Housing Authority. The project is part of a broader initiative to enhance playgrounds, facilities, and parks throughout Lexington.

In addition to the playground, improvements have been made to drainage on a paved trail within Gainesway Park, and plans are in place to plant additional trees in the area. The management and programming of Tates Creek Community Center, located within the park, have also seen significant growth since being taken over by Parks & Recreation in 2022.

The community can look forward to the opening of the new playground at Gainesway Park in the upcoming months, providing a vibrant and engaging space for families and children to enjoy outdoor recreation and play.