What’s coming to Lexington: 2024 development updates

Everywhere you look, it seems like Lexington is growing. Here’s what projects are completed and the timeline for future developments.

An entrance that reads "The Fountains."

The Fountains at Palomar is soon to become a popular destination for all things food and shopping. | Photo by LEXtoday

Here we grow again. This year kicked off a massive spree of new developments around Lexington. We’ve been covering everything from a new shopping center near Palomar, to what will become our city’s own Central Park. So strap in, we’re giving you an update on all the biggest developments in Lexington.

The Fountains at Palomar

Seemingly overnight, the Fountains at Palomar has made its presence known on Harrodsburg Road. So far, several businesses have already made this district home, including local favorites like Bella Cafe & Grille and Papi’s Mexican Restaurant. Soon, other noteworthy businesses are expected to open by the end of 2024, such as one of the highly anticipated Publix locations.

A banner that features renderings of a new park and reads "Coming 2025: Phoenix Park Reimagined."

The revamped Phoenix Park is expected to open next year after years of stagnation. | Photo by LEXtoday

Phoenix Park

This past June, city officials kicked off construction for the reimagined Phoenix Park at the the corner of Main Street + North Limestone. The park has spent 30+ years being a popular gathering space, and the $4.6 million upgrades are expected to bring it back to its former glory.

Once completed in early 2025 — residents can expect to see:

  • New play equipment
  • An interactive fog area
  • A performance stage area
  • An improved dog park

Gatton Park on the Town Branch

Along with undergoing a name change, Gatton Park’s construction is getting more tangible by the day. The 10-acre city park is expected to be completed in 2025, but it’s already showing signs of life.

Driving down West Main Street, you can see the nearly completed structure of:

  • The amphitheater
  • Tunnel pathway and walking bridge
  • A food + beverage space
  • Gathering plaza
  • The park’s main building
A building under construction with a sign in front that reads "Coming Summer 2024."

The new RD1 Spirits distillery will feature a two-story research space, tourism center, gift shop, and private event space. | Photo by LEXtoday

The Commons

Just a little further down Main Street is a more tucked-away block that is also quickly burgeoning. The Commons is a 40-acre mixed-use development that has already made its presence known in the city thanks to established businesses like Sora Aerial Arts and Battle Axes. In January, RD1 Spirits, a $5 million distillery, also broke ground in the area + is expected to be completed later this year.

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