(Editor's note:) In these times of prolonged economic malaise, if not abject concern, a lot of powder is being kept dry as many investors await the day when some reasonable level of trust can be placed in the long-term outlook. Some, however, see opportunity in such conditions.
Announcement of the latest and, to date, largest and most aggressive development on Lexington's Northside, illuminates that can-do spirit. Although the initial news of it has come and gone, we thought you would enjoy reflecting on the implications of the project rolled out on Oct. 5 by the four partners of the newly formed West Sixth Brewing Company - a project viewed as "transformative" in a post on our website by
Northside Neighborhood Association President Seth Brewer: "It is contributing to a great convergence of developments in the area (the new culinary corridor of South Jefferson right down the street, BCTC taking over Eastern State Hospital, the budding North Limestone Art and Entertainment District). And the ripples from all this will likely be felt throughout all of Lexington."
Or, as another reader posting to our site put it: "I applaud developers that support infill development vs. continuing Fayette County's urban sprawl. It returns social, cultural, recreational and entertainment opportunities and helps maintain/increase property values in older city centers."
Below is an account by contributing writer Jeff Beach of this plan to maintain authenticity and character while infusing new excitement in one of Lexington's most historic neighborhoods.
Lexington, KY - Where many would see an empty, decaying industrial site on Lexington's north side, four partners see the potential for a micro-brewery, surrounded by other community-minded organizations and businesses.
The West Sixth Brewing Co. has purchased the former Rainbo Bread factory at the corner of Sixth Street and Jefferson Street with plans to transform the structure into what will become known as The Bread Box, a mixed-used development anchored by the brewery.
The more than 90,000-square-foot development has three tenants ready to move in early next year: