$6 million changes

Lexington to move $6 million in COVID relief elsewhere

ARPA funding will be put towards several new projects across town. // Photo courtesy of @thedronerangerky

This week, the Lexington-Fayette Urban County Council voted to reallocate $6 million of its COVID relief funding, aka American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds.

The changes

In 2021, Lexington outlined where its $121+ million in ARPA funds would be spent, announcing major projects such as $7.5 million going towards Town Branch Park.

Previously, $2 million of the funding was intended to go towards moving the Salvation Army of Lexington to a bigger location. Instead, the organization plans to expand its current location on West Main Street.

The remaining $4 million would have gone to the Lexington Farmers’ Market for relocation, which had plans for a permanent space near Oliver Lewis Way. For now, the farmers’ market will stay in its current home at Tandy Park, as well as support its seasonal locations across town.

Fast fact: ARPA funds must be spent by the end of 2026. The organizations above noted they were unable to meet the deadline for spending and completed projects.

What’s next?

The council has voted to now use the $6 million for affordable housing, renovations, new construction, and re-imagining Phoenix Park.

Despite the money being shifted around, the council has voted to use it in a way that still supports the community –

💸 $2 million towards Lexington’s affordable housing fund
💸 $2 million towards building a new community building in Davis Park
💸 $1 million towards renovating Black + Williams Community Center
💸 $1 million to revamp and re-imagine downtown’s Phoenix Park

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Thursday, March 2

All Things Real Estate | Thursday, Mar. 2 | 6 p.m. | Keller Williams Bluegrass Realty, 854 East High St., Lexington | Keller Williams invites you to learn about first-time home buying, investing 101, and how to pick the right lender.

Friday, March 3

St. Patrick’s Day Block Party | Friday, Mar. 3 | 6-9 p.m. | Greyline Station, 101 W. Loudon Ave., Lexington | Free | Stop by the monthly block party for Irish Dancing performances, live music, vendors, good food + more.

Saturday, March 4

Abettor Brewing Brunch | Saturday, Mar. 4-Saturday, Apr. 29 | Times vary | Abettor Brewing Company Depot, 128 North Highland St., Winchester | Enjoy a delicious brunch from Bells on Wheels plus mimosa flights and a bloody mary bar.

Sunday, March 5

Lexington Music Awards 2023 | Sunday, Mar. 5 | 6 p.m. | Lyric Theatre and Cultural Arts Center, 300 E. 3rd St., Lexington | $12 | Celebrate local music at this ceremony featuring award presentations, special performances by a variety of artists from the region + more.

Tuesday, March 21

Smart Growth Ambassadors | Tuesday, Mar. 21 | 5:30-7:30 p.m. | Crank & Boom Craft Ice Cream, 1210 Manchester St., Lexington | Free | This educational class is designed to help community members learn how to be ambassadors for responsible land use in Lexington-Fayette County.*

We have a calendar filled with events and activities you can plan for in advance. Click the button below to bookmark ideas for upcoming date nights, family outings, and time with friends.

IT'S ALMOST THE WEEKEND

Weather

61º | Cloudy | 8% chance of rain

Coming Soon

You gotta risk it to get the biscuit. At least, that’s what Biscuit Belly thinks. The Louisville chain announced that it will open two more locations in Lexington — one near Masterson Station later this summer and on Harrodsburg Road, in early 2024. (Lexington Herald-Leader)

Try This

Lexington Public Library’s Eastside Branch has extended its hours for the Makerspace. The collaborative workspace will now be open for you to flex those creative muscles every Wednesday from 1-6:30 p.m. Stop by to create, learn + explore technology, art, science, and entrepreneurship.

Concert

These warmer temps are bringing more than sunshine — outdoor music season is upon us. Southland’s Tahlsound Music Festival announced the return of its concert series starting Sunday, April 23. Shows will run once a month through September, enjoy fresh air, local eateries + drinks, and of course, live music.

Drink

With your mind on your money and your money on your mind, sip on Castle & Key’s Rise Seasonal Gin which is back — for good. Due to popularity, the distiller is transitioning to two recipe releases per year: Rise in the spring and summer + Harvest for the fall and winter. The spring-inspired bottle is available starting today at Castle & Key Distillery in Frankfort.

Wellness

Our go-to product to relieve tension and decrease under eye puffiness: an ice roller. Not to mention, it’s the perfect way to cool off your face after an intense workout or morning run. These ice globes are also a great skincare addition to help soothe and depuff. *

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THE WRAP

Today’s issue was written by Aayat.

Editor’s pick: I don’t know about y’all, but I’m over winter and ready for patio season. Have a favorite? Drop us a line and let us know your favorite spots to soak up the sun. ☀️

Missed yesterday’s newsletter? Check out all the biggest shows coming to Lexington over the next few months.

Connect with us.

Editorial: Molly Thompson, Aayat Ali, Britt Thorson, Emily Shea, Jessalin Heins-Nagamoto, Dayten Rose, Sarah Leonhardt, Katie Smith | Send us a scoop, question, or feedback.

Sales: Marin Fiske | Advertise with us.

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