Lexington, Kentucky, November 18, 2025
Lexington, Kentucky, is moving forward with plans to develop a new Government Center at the former Truist Bank Building on West Vine Street. This initiative focuses on providing a modern facility to replace the outdated City Hall, which has significant maintenance needs. The project, carried out by a public-private partnership, is projected to cost around $86 million. Renovation and construction are expected to begin in 2026 with a target opening in 2028.
Lexington, Kentucky, Proposes New Government Center at Former Truist Bank Building
Lexington, Kentucky – The city of Lexington is advancing plans to establish a new Government Center at the former Truist Bank Building located at 200 West Vine Street. This initiative aims to address the city’s longstanding need for a modern and accessible government facility.
Project Overview
The proposed development involves a public-private partnership with the Lexington Opportunity Fund, a collaboration between the Greer Companies and the Webb Companies. Under this agreement, the city would acquire the 1.7-acre site, which includes an eight-story office building and a 286-space parking garage, for approximately $23.6 million. The developers would then renovate and construct a new 104,000-square-foot structure, with the city leasing the facility for 35 years at an annual cost of $3.5 million. At the end of the lease term, ownership of the building would transfer to the city. The total estimated project cost, encompassing property acquisition, design, construction, and financing, is approximately $86 million.
Rationale for the New Government Center
The current City Hall, situated at 200 East Main Street, is housed in a former hotel built in 1920 and was intended to be a temporary solution when purchased in 1982. Over the years, the building has become outdated and no longer meets the needs of the city’s growing population. Deferred maintenance and repairs are estimated at $55 million, covering basic upkeep and required code updates. The new Government Center is envisioned to be more financially efficient, accessible to the public, and provide a better workplace environment for city employees. It is also intended to serve as a community hub, connecting government and community.
Next Steps
The Lexington Urban County Council is scheduled to vote on advancing the public-private partnership agreement during a work session on November 18, 2025. If approved, construction is anticipated to begin in 2026, with the new Government Center expected to open in 2028.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the proposed location for the new Government Center?
The proposed location for the new Government Center is the former Truist Bank Building at 200 West Vine Street in Lexington, Kentucky.
What is the estimated cost of the project?
The total estimated project cost, including property acquisition, design, construction, and financing, is approximately $86 million.
When is the new Government Center expected to open?
The new Government Center is expected to open in 2028.
What is the current status of the project?
The Lexington Urban County Council is scheduled to vote on advancing the public-private partnership agreement during a work session on November 18, 2025.
Why is a new Government Center necessary?
The current City Hall is outdated and requires significant maintenance, with deferred repairs estimated at $55 million. The new Government Center aims to provide a more efficient, accessible, and modern facility for city operations and the community.
Key Features of the Proposed Government Center
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Former Truist Bank Building at 200 West Vine Street, Lexington, Kentucky |
| Site Area | 1.7 acres |
| Building Size | 104,000 square feet |
| Parking | 286-space parking garage |
| Estimated Project Cost | Approximately $86 million |
| Lease Terms | 35-year lease with annual payments of $3.5 million |
| Ownership Transfer | Building ownership transfers to the city after 35 years |
| Expected Opening | 2028 |
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