LEXINGTON, Ky. — Lextran, the city's public transit system, is giving its Downtown Transit Center a facelift. 

According to a release, Lextran said the renovations will improve the experience of riders and employees alike, ensuring the Transit Center serves the city's needs for years to come while offering a more comfortable, accessible and efficient transit experience. Construction will last approximately eight months.

The center has not been significantly renovated since it was completed 34 years ago, Lextran said. 

“We are thrilled to bring our plans for the Transit Center to life,” said Lextran General Manager Fred Combs. “The Downtown Transit Center is a critical hub for our community as thousands of people use the space each day. We look forward to providing a modernized space to make daily transit more comfortable, accessible and efficient for everyone.”

Lextran said customers and staff can expect the following improvements:

• A redesigned customer space for assistance and purchasing passes
• Updated public restrooms and waiting areas for enhanced comfort, safety and accessibility
• A newly designed employee break room and restrooms
• A designated space for a future convenience retail area, allowing passengers to purchase snacks, drinks and other essentials

Lextran said beginning Monday, April 7, operations at the Transit Center will be relocated to High Street until after renovations. Pass sales will be moved to the administrative headquarters on Loudon Avenue, and the Transit Center platform and sidewalk will be closed until after construction. Passengers should plan accordingly and prepare for all weather conditions, as there will be no public restrooms, indoor waiting area or water fountains, along with limited seating and shelter. 

Customer service functions such as phone support, pass sales, lost and found and ID processing, along with in-person bus pass sales, will be relocated to the Loudon Administrative Office at 200 W. Loudon Ave. throughout construction. Hours are 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday. 

“We know this transition will require patience, and we appreciate our riders and staff for adapting with us,” Combs said. “Our goal is to build a Transit Center that truly meets Lexington's needs today and in the future. By the end of this project, riders will have a more modern, efficient, and welcoming space—one that makes public transit an even more convenient and reliable choice for our city.”

Regular updates will be available at www.lextran.com. More information can also be found on Lextran's Facebook and Instagram pages.

Lextran operates 25 fixed routes and door-to-door paratransit service. Regular bus fare is $1.