Good morning, this is Lexington Local Pulse for Tuesday, July first. We have a lot to talk about in our city today, so let's jump right in. Overnight, Lexington police responded to a disturbing incident: one person is charged with assault after an afternoon stabbing yesterday. The assault happened on the north side, and police say the victim is recovering. This follows news earlier in the week that a Lexington man was arrested and tased at a hotel in the Hamburg area, facing federal drug and gun charges. Public safety remains a priority, and officers were also recently recognized at their annual banquet for bravery and service, a bright spot amid the tough news.
On the state level, officials are watching a measles outbreak after confirmed cases in several Kentucky counties. There are no new reports in Fayette County, but health officials are urging families to check vaccinations, especially with July Fourth events on the horizon. Speaking of city updates, a key reminder for families: starting today, Medicaid renewals for children are back after a five-year pause. All families with Medicaid coverage for their children need to complete annual paperwork again to keep benefits uninterrupted.
Real estate activity across Lexington is brisk as we head into July. Last week alone, more than 150 new homes hit the market, with average prices holding near 320 thousand dollars. That is a slight uptick compared to last summer, reflecting steady demand. In the job market, we are seeing over 1,200 openings posted citywide, with the strongest demand in healthcare, advanced manufacturing, and logistics. Several local businesses are making headlines this week—Avid Hotels opened a new location near Hamburg, bringing dozens of hospitality jobs, while a beloved coffee shop on South Limestone is closing its doors after a decade, citing rising costs.
Weatherwise, it is a warm and muggy start, with temperatures climbing into the high eighties by midday. Storms could roll in late afternoon, so we will want to keep an umbrella handy if we are heading to events or errands. Looking ahead, the forecast stays hot and humid through the Fourth, so remember to stay hydrated during neighborhood festivities.
Cultural news brings good cheer with the musical 42nd Street returning to downtown this weekend, promising lively performances and a full house at the Lexington Opera House. Also, prepare for road closures on Shillito Park Road overnight this week; the city has extended repairs through Thursday.
Schools may be quiet for the summer, but we have some athletic highlights: Lexington high schoolers brought home three state medals in track and field last week, continuing our city’s strong tradition of youth sports achievement.
And to wrap up, a feel-good moment—volunteers from a local nonprofit banded together this weekend to refresh playground equipment at Douglass Park, making sure kids had a safe, cheerful space ahead of the holiday.
This has been Lexington Local Pulse. We’ll see you tomorrow with more local updates.
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