Lexington’s resilient downtown

A busy downtown at dusk with cars driving fast

Hey, downtown Lexington, we think you’re pretty cool too. | Photo by @femibranded

On Wednesday, The New York Times released a list of 10 cities whose downtown “have come back even stronger and more resilient” since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic.

And guess who was listed — we were.

Here are a few key points:

  • The resurgence of downtown in the 2010s — thanks to new restaurants, bars + the repurposing of old buildings — took the area from “an afterthought” to “blooming.”
  • Lexington is more recession-proof due to our largest employers being universities and hospitals.
  • While the pandemic has been cited as the cause for many hits + closures, some business owners say in terms of people out doing things — numbers are better than in 2019.

And with the addition of Town Branch Park, the Rupp Arena at Central Bank Center renovations + the High Street development, our resilience is strengthened and even growing.

So, let’s write a love letter to downtown. Share with us your favorite memories, businesses, or features of downtown.

More from LEXtoday
Directly north, east, south, and west of us, cities across the world await.
Bookmark this guide for a curated list of events taking place each month that we’re most looking forward to.
Put your money where your community is and help us create a guide to small businesses by submitting your favorite local spots and sharing this page with a friend.
From breakfast to dinner — we’ve rounded up a day full of kid-friendly activities for the whole family to enjoy.
We took a look at two women who made history at the famous race track.
You don’t have to wait until St. Patrick’s Day to learn about Irish culture in Lexington, just head to Upper Street to shop, sip, and spend time at Irish-owned businesses.
Sponsored
These projects top Zillow’s list for home upgrades that could deliver the strongest return when it’s time to sell.
From brands to artists, Lexington’s business scene is truly inspired.
Crave Taco Week runs Monday, March 9 to Sunday, March 15, where you can try out dozens of tacos from 20+ different restaurants.