In August, I wrote an Op-Ed about the serious challenges facing downtown Lexington — drug use, aggressive panhandling, and a violent and senseless attack on a defenseless individual. Phoenix Park epitomized these troubles; for decades, that area has been blighted and troubled. The city tried engineering around it, but no one could quite figure out how to make it work. Even Panera went out of business!
That’s why I want to say, without hesitation: bravo, Lexington. Phoenix Park today is a success story I did not think was possible.
Over the past few weeks, I’ve been on my afternoon walks and have seen the transformation up close. Just yesterday, I ate lunch and read a book in the park. The sun was shining, children were laughing and playing, and it felt like the heart of a thriving city. Today, multiple food trucks filled the block while a man strummed guitar — a perfect mix of energy and community…