Continue to implement PDR program to safeguard Lexington’s rural land.
As outlined in the 2017 Rural Land Management Plan, Lexington has had a long history of taking positive action to ensure the community’s rural heritage is preserved from unmanaged suburban sprawl. In 1958, the Urban Service Area Boundary was created to manage development, and has become a pioneering landmark for planning across the nation. In 2000, the Purchase of Development Rights Ordinance was adopted.
As of August 25, 2017, there were 28,953 acres of farmland in Fayette County preserved in perpetuity by PDR, and another 1,257 acres under contract. There are 261 farms permanently protected by PDR. The goal of the PDR program is to conserve 50,000 acres of land.
Goals and Objectives
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 E1: Uphold the Urban Service Area concept.
Objective: E1b
Ensure all types of development are environmentally, economically, and socially sustainable to accommodate the future growth needs of all residents while safeguarding rural land.