University of Kentucky/Lexington-Fayette Urban County Government
Lexington, KY

Completion: 2002
Size 24 acres

As Ayers/Saint/Gross worked on a master plan for the University of Kentucky, it was impossible to ignore its relationship with multiple segments of the city. Community groups wondered if student housing would move into their neighborhoods, and an adjacent church and hospital wanted to know if there would be conflicts with their expansions plans.

These factors were among the many that led the University and a city/county alliance to request Ayers/Saint/Gross conduct a simultaneous campus town study. We decided to work only with vacant land and to avoid removal of any buildings. It was important to retain old and historic structures and to increase the density by using the architectural character of the region. Attention also was given to parking, traffic, and transportation. Sustainable design is incorporated throughout the project to maximize open space, provide water efficient landscaping and reduce the heat island effect.

The area under consideration was divided into small parcels for detailed analysis in collaboration with UK and community stakeholders. Eventually, 10 recommendations were brought forward and supported in public meetings.

For example, the University, hospital, and church agreed to share parking resources so the land could be developed efficiently. It was determined that 300 market-rate housing units could be absorbed within three years, and the neighborhoods were encouraged that additional residential life would come to the area. Retail development will be implemented as the plan is refined.