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Greenspace Plan

Integrate the Greenspace Plan into urban and rural area.

Availability and accessibility of greenspace is essential for human growth and development. As suggested in the 1994 Greenspace Plan, the benefits of creating a comprehensive greenspace system go far beyond leisure and aesthetics, and are fundamental to the future economy and quality of the environment of this community and the entire Bluegrass Region. Protecting our remaining greenspace is not a luxury; it is a necessity for maintaining the quality of life that Bluegrass residents have always enjoyed and will continue to desire for the future.

Greenspace is more than horse farms, parks, and rock fences; it also encompasses natural environments such as streams, sinkholes, and the Kentucky River, valuable resources such prime soils; buildings that recall the community’s founding and history; the experience of the city or countryside from an automobile; and the ability to travel safely by bicycle or on foot. The Greenspace system refers to the rich fabric of these qualities woven together throughout the community, giving it a coherent identity. Greenspace benefits to environmental quality include safeguarding water quality; supporting biodiversity in the urban and rural area; and educating present and future stewards of the environment.

Goals and Objectives

GOAL B3: Apply environmentally sustainable practices to protect, conserve and restore landscapes and natural resources.

Objective: B3a

Support the funding, planning and management of a green infrastructure program.

Objective: B3b

Identify and protect natural resources and landscapes before development occurs.

Objective: B3c

Incorporate green infrastructure principles in new plans and policies, including, but not limited to and transportation.

Objective: B3d

Coordinate interrelated planning, programs and activities that impact the protection, conservation and restoration of landscapes and natural resources.

GOAL D3: Protect and enhance the natural and cultural landscapes that give Lexington-Fayette County its unique identity and image.

There are no objectives related to this policy that further this particular goal.

GOAL E2: Support the agricultural economy, horse farms, general agricultural farms and the rural character of the Rural Service Area.

Objective: E2a

Protect and enhance the natural, cultural, historic and environmental resources of Lexington-Fayette County's Rural Service Area and Bluegrass farmland to help promote the general agricultural brand and ensure Lexington-Fayette County remains the Horse Capital of the World.

Objective: E2b

Support the Purchase of Development Rights and private sector farmland conservation programs to protect, preserve and enhance our signature agricultural industries, historic structures, cultural landscapes, natural environments and community welfare.