Lexington ‘rocks out’ with new climbing boulders in downtown park. It’s a first

Climbers will now have a way to test their skills in downtown Lexington.

On Thursday, the city officially unveiled new climbing boulders in Northeastern Park, 140 Eastern Ave., near the Thoroughbred Park on Midland Avenue. It’s the first outdoor climbing boulders in a public park in Lexington.

“We are so excited to bring these unique play features to Northeastern Park for people of all ages to enjoy,” Mayor Linda Gorton said. “We pride ourselves on the wide variety of recreational activities available at our parks, but it’s rare when we get to roll out an activity that’s brand-new in our city. We’re rocking out with Lexington’s first outdoor climbing boulders!”

The city asked residents what types of features they wanted at Northeastern. The response was overwhelming: More climbing features.

Recreation Insights and ID Sculpture boulders are made from glass fiber and reinforced concrete. The rocks are meant to mimic one of the Kentucky’s biggest climbing draws — Red River Gorge.

Nearby businesses and climbing groups are supporting the re-development of Northeastern Park, including A Cup of Commonwealth, LEF Climbing, the Red River Gorge Climbers’ Coalition and Martine’s Pastries.

“With the neighborhood eager for climbing features, it allowed us to investigate and offer something unique in Lexington, making this a destination park for climbers in the city,” said Michelle Kosieniak, superintendent of design for the parks department. “With a beautiful new playground at nearby Charlies Young Park and Thoroughbred Park across the street, the unique features at Northeastern compliment what is offered in the area.”

The installation of the new boulders is part of more than $10 million in federal coronavirus relief funding dedicated to parks improvements.

Updates have also been made at Gardenside, Masterson Station, Pine Meadows, Woodland, Trailwood, Meadowthorpe, Mary Todd, Duncan and Elizabeth Street parks.

Northeastern Park was a favorite play location for Landon Hayes, a 10-year old boy who was tragically killed in a house on North Upper Street in February 2022. A memorial bench will be installed and dedicated to Landon later this summer.