Mayor Linda Gorton, Councilmember Josh McCurn, Lexington Parks & Recreation staff, and neighborhood families today cut a ribbon to open a new section of trail at Masterson Station Park.
“We’re installing new trails all over Lexington, and it’s starting here in Masterson Station Park,” Mayor Linda Gorton said. “This is the first of many new trails and sections of trails across the city that will enhance many of our parks. This is the ‘Year of the Park’ here in Lexington, and this expanded access and navigation throughout them is an opportunity for people to enjoy recreational activities and all that nature has to offer.”
The new trail section connects the existing path between the Masterson Station neighborhood and playground with Town Branch Trail – a multi-use trail surrounding the McConnell’s Trace neighborhood. Expanded access to the playground comes at the perfect time - a new climber and picnic shelter were just installed in the area. It also gives better access to the splash pad, a popular destination for families.
“Families and friends of all ages now have a safe connection from Town Branch Trail to Masterson Station playground,” said Councilmember Josh McCurn, whose district includes Masterson Station Park. “This new trail provides a much-needed connection and allows for trail-goers to take in nature’s beauty throughout Masterson Station Park. Connecting our neighborhoods continues to be one of my top priorities and I’m excited to see this completed.”
The new trail section at Masterson Station Park is the first of many new trails enhancing parks across Lexington. The trails, funded by the American Rescue Plan Act, include Jacobson, Whitney Young, Gainesway, and Wildwood parks, as well as Raven Run Nature Sanctuary.
“American Rescue Plan Act funds have allowed us to add and expand trails across the city,” said Michelle Kosieniak, Superintendent of Planning & Design at Lexington Parks & Recreation. “Park equity and access are top priorities when reviewing upcoming projects. Additional trails either enhance our current trail systems or add much-needed access to already beautiful parks.”
Parks & Recreation, a Lexington-Fayette Urban County Government division, oversees the programming, maintenance, and development of over 100 city parks and natural areas, six pools, five golf courses, community centers, recreational programs, and three arts venues. To find out more, follow @LexKYParks on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, or sign up for the email newsletter.
