High Street pilot project planned to improve pedestrian safety
News release provided by Lexington-Fayette Urban County Government
In early June, a pilot project to improve pedestrian safety and reduce speeding will be installed on East High Street, between Woodland Avenue and Rose Street. Parking spaces and a bike lane will be added to create a safer environment for pedestrians, cyclists and drivers. Installation is scheduled for June 2 – 6, weather permitting.
Neighborhood residents are concerned that the area feels unsafe for pedestrians due to speeding. It is also difficult to cross East High Street. The proposed plan will reduce traffic from two lanes to one, add a bike lane separated from traffic and create 36 more parking spots.
“East High is a vital connection for so many people, and this pilot is a meaningful step toward making it safer and more accessible for everyone — whether you’re walking, biking, or driving,” said Councilmember Hannah LeGris. “By testing low-cost, quick-build improvements, we can address community concerns, gather real data, and make smart, responsive decisions that enhance quality of life in our neighborhoods. Thank you to our neighborhood champions for their dedication and support on this project.”
The Division of Traffic Engineering will collect data about speeding and collisions. Data on pedestrian and cyclist usage will also be collected. This information will be used to determine if the project will be permanent or temporary. The City plans to collect and evaluate data by the end of 2025 and make changes, if needed, in the spring of 2026.
This pilot project is consistent with Lexington’s Complete Streets policy which was adopted by the Urban County Council in 2022. The goal of Complete Streets is to ensure our transportation system is safe, accessible and dependable for everyone. The data collected from the High Street pilot and future projects can improve neighborhood traffic flow and safety.
News release provided by Lexington-Fayette Urban County Government
https://www.lexingtonky.gov/news/high-street-pilot-project-planned-improve-pedestrian-safety
