Lexington City Council members got a briefing on plans for the central Kentucky community’s next regional park. Cardinal Run North Park, with 137 acres, will be developed where New Circle and Versailles Roads intersect. Pat Hoagland is with the Brandstetter Carrol landscape architectural firm. He told Council many of the passive and active features mentioned in civic engagement sessions will find their way into the new park.
“These are the things, top of the list, nature trails, pickleball. That lobby is getting stronger all the time. Playgrounds, paved trails, natural areas, restrooms, disc golf, dog parks,” said Hoagland.
Hoagland said the entrance to Cardinal Run Park North will be on the other side of Parkers Mill Road from the way into Cardinal Run Park South. The landscape architect said traffic safety adjustments may be needed between the two entrances.
Parks and Recreation Director Monica Conrad was asked about the possibility of a city-run soccer program at some point.
“I’m not sure that Parks and Recreation is getting…is wanting to enter the programming of soccer because we have so many other folks that are doing it really well. But we do want to make sure that we’re delivering equitable inclusive space throughout the city for all of our partners,” said Conrad.
Land had been set aside in 1997 for a park project. Millions in American Rescue Plan Act money made the development of the park possible.
Plans call for a groundbreaking late spring to early summer and an opening in the spring of 2025.
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