Community Invited to Shape the Future of Lexington's Downtown

October 20, 2023
For Immediate Release

Community Invited to Shape the Future of Lexington's Downtown at the "Lexington Center Workshop — The Journey Forward”

Lexington, MA — The Town of Lexington is excited to announce a two-day community workshop, to be held on November 17 and 18, 2023, with the goal of rejuvenating the downtown area and increasing its vibrancy. Consistent with the Select Board’s goals, this unique event will bring together residents, business owners, and other community stakeholders to discuss and identify implementable priorities for the future of Lexington Center.

Building on recent successes in revitalizing Lexington's downtown area, this upcoming workshop marks a pivotal moment in Lexington's sustained development efforts. Informed by insights from past studies—including the comprehensive plan and those focused on parking, retail strategy, and tourism—the Town has successfully rolled out a variety of community-driven initiatives.

These efforts range from lively programming, such as concerts and beer gardens, to more structural accomplishments, such as achieving a Cultural District designation and completing the Center Streetscape project. “Given the community's strong enthusiasm and track record of achievements, the workshop offers an exciting forum to collaboratively identify the next actionable priorities for enhancing Lexington Center,” says Douglas Lucente, member of the Lexington Select Board.

About the Event

Agenda

Day 1: Friday, November 17, 2023

  • Time: 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
  • Location: Cary Memorial Building, Battin Hall
  • Format: Round-table discussions led by urban planners Dr. John Mullin and Dr. Zenia Kotval
  • Pizza and refreshments will be served. 

Day 2, Part 1: Saturday, November 18, 2023

  • Time: 9:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
  • Location: Starts at the Depot Building, 13 Depot Square, Lexington, MA
  • Format: A walking tour of the downtown area, followed by a group discussion from 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
  • Light refreshments will be served.

Day 2, Part 2: Saturday, November 18, 2023

  • Time: 4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
  • Location: Depot Building, 13 Depot Square, Lexington, MA
  • Format: Open House, drop-in sessions where you can share your thoughts and ideas
  • Light refreshments will be served.

Special Guests

We are honored to have Dr. John Mullin (resume) and Dr. Zenia Kotval (resume), renowned experts in urban planning and community development, as our lead facilitators for the event.

Who Should Attend

  • Shoppers, restaurant goers, and patrons of Lexington Center
  • Young people
  • Families
  • Business owners
  • Property owners
  • Town Meeting members
  • Committee members

How to RSVP

Registration is requested but not required to attend. Participants are welcome to attend some or all of the events.

We look forward to your participation in shaping the future of Lexington Center.