GrowSmart Master Plan

In 2017, LAS was hired by the Fayette Alliance, a land use advocacy organization dedicated to responsible growth of Fayette County, KY and promotion of its signature Bluegrass landscape.  The first task was to document Vacant, Undeveloped and Underutilized Property within Lexington’s signature Urban Services Boundary, the first urban growth boundary in the United States.  LAS conducted extensive analysis of parcel data and developed a methodology to objectively identify potential Underutilized Property.  Work was also carried out to evaluate potential development potential of identified primary development/redevelopment focus areas.

Subsequently, more detailed research, planning and analysis was carried out to develop “Grow Smart”, an advocacy effort focused around growing Lexington proactively and responsibly.   Strategies focused on Land Use/Development, Quality of Life Investment and Transportation/Infrastructure Improvements. Development potential was quantified and analysis was carried out relative to Lexington’s progressive “PlaceBuilder”typologies. Steps to ensure diversity, equity and inclusion related to growth and development were also considered. Grow Smart identified an opportunity to utilize Lexington’s unique hub and spoke transportation network to invest in walkability, dedicated trails and investment in connected regional parks.