The Lexington City Council Work Session held on May 27, 2025, focused on the ongoing Citation connection projects, specifically the critical connections at Windburn and Russell Cave. These projects, identified in the Small Area Plan approximately seven to eight years ago, are divided into two phases: Phase 3a, which involves the Windburn connection, and Phase 3b, which extends from Windburn to Russell Cave.

During the meeting, officials emphasized that these primary connections are essential to manage traffic flow and prevent neighborhood streets from becoming thoroughfares. The timeline for these connections varies due to different funding sources, including state and local contributions, with the Windburn connection being the immediate priority.

The discussion also highlighted the historical context of the project, noting that efforts to establish these connections have been in progress for decades, with significant funding secured in recent years. Council member Brown played a pivotal role in obtaining bond funding to initiate the design and construction phases.

A key point raised during the session was the importance of drainage in conjunction with the roadway connections. Officials explained that the new infrastructure must address existing drainage issues in the area, particularly to prevent exacerbating problems in the neighborhood.

Concerns were voiced by community members regarding the potential impact of these projects on the historic African American neighborhood, particularly in Green Acres. Residents expressed a desire for more community engagement and transparency in the planning process, indicating that they felt caught off guard by the developments.

The meeting concluded with questions about the implications of postponing or removing the current item from the agenda, particularly regarding its effect on the overall timeline for the Citation connections. The officials clarified that any delays could hinder progress on the Windburn connection and subsequent phases.

Overall, the session underscored the complexity of balancing infrastructure development with community preservation and engagement, setting the stage for further discussions on how to proceed with the Citation connection projects.