LEXINGTON, N.C. (WGHP) — After more than two decades of planning and development, a vision is coming together for Lexington’s Depot District.
The municipality is proceeding with its much-anticipated rejuvenation initiative.
The city officials indicate that the entire initiative, which encompasses the reinstatement of the commuter railway network, development of additional residences, enhancements to tunnels and roads, is progressing as scheduled and expected to be finalized by 2028.
"It takes some time. The community might have moved from being highly enthusiastic to thinking 'perhaps they won’t follow through,' and then wondering ‘what’s happening with it.’ However, I want to reassure everyone that we remain dedicated to revitalizing this area," stated Tammy Absher, who leads Business and Community Development.
The Depot District in Lexington is generating quite a bit of excitement. According to local officials, it’s flourishing.
Well-known establishments such as Goose, The Monkey Brewhouse, Bull City Ciderworks, Holland Brooks Event Center, and Short Circuit Arcade Bar are receiving considerable notice.
"There are numerous distinct activities occurring simultaneously in the depot district, and integrating all these elements is what will form the complete vision for the area," Absher stated.
A new tunnel will also be situated along Fifth Avenue in the district, aimed at enhancing traffic circulation and safety. One of the most significant aspects of the area’s metamorphosis is the reinstatement of passenger rail services.
The city has lately obtained revised draft illustrations showcasing how the district’s transformation might appear.
The procedure for awarding contracts for constructing the new passenger rail station is anticipated to begin by the end of this year or possibly at the start of next year.
"I believe we'll witness significant construction activities by the close of this year. The civic projects... have received approval, and progress has begun... These initiatives typically involve several years of preparatory work before visible actions commence, yet we're approaching the conclusion of this planning phase, and tangible developments are now becoming evident," stated Absher.
The federal funds are significantly contributing to covering these costs, and the authorities are certain that the financial support is stable.
We have collaborated with our federal partners on this initiative for several years, and this particular grant was previously allocated under a grant agreement; thus, we continue moving ahead," Absher stated. "The city has pledged $5 million, the state has contributed slightly more than $10 million, and subsequently, the federal government supplemented these efforts with a $25 million grant.
Besides offering additional dining and entertainment areas, city officials mentioned that approval has been granted for five new apartment complexes within the district. A number of these residential units are presently being built.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This content must not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or distributed.To stay updated with the newest information, weather forecasts, sporting events, and live streams, visit FOX8 WGHP.