Planning Commission reviews hotel project access amidst neighbor objections in Lexington

The Lexington Planning Commission meeting on July 10, 2025, focused on a proposed hotel development project that has faced scrutiny from neighboring property owners. The project, which includes a service drive and parking areas, was initially approved but has undergone changes to address engineering concerns and neighbor objections.

Nathan Billings, representing the applicant, detailed modifications made to the development plan, including the removal of parking over a detention area to comply with engineering requirements. He emphasized that the project meets all subdivision regulations and has received recommendations for approval from the Technical Review Committee (TRC) and the subdivision committee.

However, John Woodall, representing the Marriott Owners Group, raised significant concerns regarding the development's impact on their property. He highlighted issues related to fire safety access, stating that the proposed plans could obstruct emergency response efforts. Woodall argued that the development should not infringe upon the Marriott's property and expressed frustration over the lack of communication regarding the project.

The discussion also touched on parking adequacy, with questions raised about the distance guests would need to walk from parking areas to the hotel entrance. Billings assured the commission that sufficient parking exists, including a cross-parking easement with adjacent properties.

The Lexington Fire Department's input was sought regarding access for emergency services. Fire officials indicated that while they require access to the property, they would not be constrained by property lines in emergency situations.

As the meeting concluded, the commission faced the challenge of balancing the development's approval with the concerns raised by neighboring property owners. The outcome of this project remains uncertain as further discussions and evaluations are anticipated.