The East End, a predominantly African American neighborhood, was once a thriving, economically diverse, culturally rich area covering 387 acres and 55 blocks of Lexington’s historic downtown core. This region, stretching from Elm Tree Lane to Winchester Road, was formerly home to one of Lexington’s oldest horse tracks, The Association. The demise of the racetrack in the early 20th century led East-Enders to build their own neighborhood around the now vacant lot. Hence, the largest public housing complex in the state, with 963 units, was built in place of the race track, heralding the start of the area locals now call “the East End”.

This neighborhood thrived from the 1930’s to 1970’s, shining with entrepreneurship, sustainability, and community engagement. The East End housed some of the state’s first legally-licensed African American doctors, as well as notable school teachers, politicians, and musicians. It was home to Dr. Ziri Palmer, Lexington’s first African-American pharmacist, and Isaac Murphy, the first African-American to win the Kentucky Derby. Les McCann, a legendary jazz pianist, was born and raised on Chestnut Street and just a block away sit the homes of the Wilgus family, a rich and powerful mercantile family that built some of the East End’s most prominent and defining architecture. It is because of all of this and more that the East End has, and will always be, one of Kentucky’s most prominent African American communities.

Community Ventures seeks to bring renewed energy and investment in the East End community in a way that benefits its residents while celebrating its culture, character and historical contributions to Lexington. Its efforts will create an atmosphere in which local entrepreneurs can start businesses and where residents can find jobs, healthcare, food, and entertainment close to home. This project is expected to stimulate the local economy, creating over one hundred jobs while addressing the community’s lack of vital resources.  The project is also expected to have a catalytic effect on the revitalization of the East End. With a balanced mix of stores, restaurants, health care facilities, and affordable and market rate housing, all in a walkable area, we can ensure these needs will be met for both current and future residents.