LEXINGTON, Ky. — The Lexington-Fayette Urban County Council approved two major initiatives during a work session Monday, allocating $375,000 for an expanded transportation pilot program and authorizing broadband infrastructure upgrades at a major business park.

The council voted unanimously to fund the Rides United program in partnership with United Way of the Bluegrass and Lyft. The two-year pilot, expected to provide approximately 12,500 free or discounted rides, will help Lexington residents access essential services including medical appointments, employment, education, and housing-related services.

Under the program structure, riders request transportation through the 211 network and receive free rides while Lyft drivers remain compensated at normal rates. The funding uses a per-ride model of $23 for transportation services and $7 for administrative costs, with the contract running through June 30, 2028.

The program represents an expansion of existing Ride United efforts. Council member Liz Sheehan noted that while Lextran's proposed microtransit pilot would only cover one area of northwest Fayette County, the United Way program could provide service county-wide and collect data to inform future transit expansion.

The council also authorized a Utility Access Agreement with Metro Fibernet, LLC for broadband infrastructure installation at the Legacy Business Park at no cost. The three-year agreement will continue indefinitely unless either party provides written notice of termination, supporting the city's continuing digital infrastructure development.

The meeting, presided over by Mayor Linda Gorton, also included approval of a Pulitzer Prize proclamation and recognition of employee service awards. A resident raised concerns during public comment about allegations regarding the city's compensation study, though no action was taken on the matter.