Planning Commission approves zoning changes for Patch And Wilkes development project

During the recent Lexington Planning Commission meeting on July 10, 2025, significant discussions centered around proposed zoning changes and development plans that could reshape the Patch and Wilkes area. The commission reviewed a development plan that includes a 127,000 square foot grocery store, a gas station, and multifamily residential units, which aims to enhance local amenities and accommodate growing community needs.

One of the key topics was the request to change the zoning of certain parcels along the roadway from conditional B-1 to standard B-1. This change would allow for more flexibility in development, including the potential for drive-through facilities. The applicant emphasized the importance of transparency regarding these uses, indicating a desire to adapt to the evolving needs of the community.

The commission also discussed the implications of removing existing conditional zoning restrictions that were originally put in place to ensure neighborhood-oriented development. These restrictions included limits on building size and the preservation of green spaces. Some commission members expressed concerns about maintaining the neighborhood character as development progresses, especially with the recent approval of additional residential sections in the area.

Planning staff recommended approval of the zoning changes, citing significant shifts in the local landscape since the original conditions were established in 2005. These changes include the expansion of the urban services boundary and the construction of nearby facilities like Frederick Douglass High School and a medical campus, which have transformed the area into a regional center.

The meeting highlighted the balance the commission must strike between accommodating growth and preserving the community's character. As the Patch and Wilkes area continues to develop, the outcomes of these discussions will play a crucial role in shaping the future of local neighborhoods and their amenities. The commission's next steps will involve further evaluation of how these developments can best serve both current residents and future growth.