Lexington, Kentucky, January 30, 2026
In her recent State of the City-County Address, Mayor Linda Gorton detailed Lexington’s significant achievements in economic growth, public safety, and infrastructure development. Employment in Fayette County reached a historic high, with evident decreases in crime rates and ongoing efforts to improve affordable housing. The address also emphasized strategic investments in parks, reflecting the city’s commitment to enhancing community livability and promoting resident engagement in shaping a vibrant future for Lexington.
Mayor Gorton Details Lexington’s Progress in State of the City-County Address
Address Highlights Civic Growth and Achievements
Lexington, Kentucky – Mayor Linda Gorton delivered her annual State of the City-County Address on Thursday, January 29, 2026, at the Central Bank Convention Center. Initially postponed due to winter weather conditions, the event hosted by the Lexington Forum showcased the city’s achievements and future aspirations, celebrating the resilience of local organizers and the community’s commitment to growth.
Keen insights from community engagement initiatives revealed how streamlined processes have bolstered partnerships with private sectors, fueling innovation and fostering local leadership. This addresses the ever-important balance between civic responsibility and individual initiative—a key theme throughout the address.
Key Highlights from the Address
- Economic Growth: The city achieved a record employment level in 2025, with 171,656 people employed in Fayette County.
- Public Safety Improvements: Violent crime decreased by 10.8% between 2024 and 2025, including a 13% reduction in homicides and a 26% drop in robberies.
- Housing Developments: Construction is underway for 231 affordable housing units, primarily for seniors aged 55 and over.
- Infrastructure Investments: The city invested over $29 million in parks projects in 2025, including the opening of Cardinal Run North, the first large regional park in 25 years.
Economic Growth: A Record Year for Employment
Highlighting Lexington’s economic resilience, Mayor Gorton announced a historic figure of 171,656 employed individuals in Fayette County as of 2025. This achievement demonstrates how local businesses and initiatives have thrived, reflecting a strong community commitment to job creation and economic development.
Such growth underscores the importance of fostering an environment where entrepreneurship can flourish, ensuring that local families benefit from enhanced employment opportunities and increased stability.
Public Safety: Reductions in Crime Rates
Addressing the public’s concerns about safety, the Mayor reported a significant 10.8% decrease in violent crimes from 2024 to 2025. This encouraging trend includes a 13% reduction in homicides and 26% fewer robberies, showcasing the effectiveness of law enforcement strategies and community involvement in public safety initiatives.
The emphasis on innovative policing practices and community engagement speaks to a broader effort to maintain and enhance the quality of life in Lexington, reinforcing the idea that a safe environment is foundational for civic growth.
Housing Developments: Commitment to Affordability
In response to growing demands for affordable housing, construction is underway for 231 units tailored principally for seniors aged 55 and over. This initiative represents a proactive approach to address the housing needs of the community while allowing residents to age in place.
By prioritizing affordable housing solutions, the city not only aids those in need but also cultivates an inclusive environment that attracts diverse populations and promotes community cohesion.
Infrastructure Investments: Enhancing Community Spaces
Reflecting a strong commitment to enhancing public spaces, Mayor Gorton announced over $29 million invested in parks projects throughout 2025. Notably, the opening of Cardinal Run North marks the first large regional park in 25 years, providing residents with valuable recreational opportunities and a venue for community gatherings.
These infrastructure improvements support community well-being and encourage active lifestyles, further adding to the quality of life in Lexington by improving access to green spaces and recreational activities.
Conclusion: A Vision for the Future
Mayor Linda Gorton’s State of the City-County Address paints a promising picture for Lexington, highlighting key advancements in economic growth, public safety, housing, and infrastructure. As the city continues to prioritize civic innovation and local engagement, the community stands poised for continued growth and success.
Residents are encouraged to support local initiatives and remain engaged in ongoing developments to ensure that Lexington becomes an even more vibrant community. By fostering individual initiatives and choosing to participate, we can collectively shape the city’s future.
FAQ
What is the record employment level achieved in Lexington for 2025?
The city achieved a record employment level in 2025, with 171,656 people employed in Fayette County.
What percentage did violent crime decrease between 2024 and 2025?
Violent crime decreased by 10.8% between 2024 and 2025, including a 13% reduction in homicides and a 26% drop in robberies.
How many affordable housing units are currently under construction in Lexington?
Construction is underway for 231 affordable housing units, primarily for seniors aged 55 and over.
How much did the city invest in parks projects in 2025?
The city invested over $29 million in parks projects in 2025, including the opening of Cardinal Run North, the first large regional park in 25 years.
Key Features of the Address
| Area of Focus | Details |
|---|---|
| Economic Growth | Record employment level of 171,656 in Fayette County. |
| Public Safety | Violent crime decreased by 10.8%, with significant reductions in homicides and robberies. |
| Housing Developments | 231 affordable housing units under construction for seniors. |
| Infrastructure Investments | $29 million invested in parks, including Cardinal Run North park. |
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Author: STAFF HERE LEXINGTON KY STAFF
The LEXINGTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERELexingtonKY.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Lexington, Fayette County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Woodland Art Fair, Crave Food and Music Festival, and Railbird Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like Commerce Lexington and Blue Grass Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in education, manufacturing, and technology that power the local economy such as University of Kentucky, Toyota Motor Manufacturing, and Lexmark. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBowlingGreen.com and HERELouisville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Kentucky's dynamic landscape.
