Blog
Block by Block launches services for Gatton Park

Block by Block is proud to announce the launch of a new Ambassador program in Gatton Park, Lexington’s newest park, located in the heart of downtown behind Rupp Arena.
A dedicated team of six Ambassadors will be on patrol seven days a week, providing a wide range of services to keep the park clean, safe, and welcoming. Their work will include walking patrols, trash removal, facility maintenance, landscaping, hospitality, event setup and more.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Gatton Park to our portfolio and to apply the knowledge we’ve gained from other parks to ensure a strong start,” said John Koch, Central Division Vice President of Block by Block.
The program is made possible through financial support from by The Blue Grass Community Foundation, the Town Branch Fund and private donations.
The Gatton Park Ambassador Program follows the proven success of Block By Block’s other Parks programs which have transformed spaces once plagued by trash, encampments, and unwanted activity into vibrant destinations for the public.
For example, before the launch of the Ambassador program at Republic Square in downtown Austin, the park served as an unofficial encampment and was known for high levels of negative activity. Today, Republic Square—and nearby Waterloo Park—are clean, safe, and inviting gathering places for the community.
“Prior to us being there, the incidents were a lot higher and the parks were dirty,” said Nick Haines, Regional Vice President of Block by Block. “Our teams make a huge impact when it comes to creating parks that feel safe, cared for, and welcoming.”
Ambassadors not only address daily cleaning and maintenance, but also engage with the unhoused community, help manage curfews, and enhance the overall visitor experience. Their presence fosters an environment that encourages families, residents, and event organizers to return and enjoy the parks.
“We’ve seen a dramatic increase in park visitors in the parks we manage as our events have become more appealing,” said Haines. “The district can now book more events because the parks are beautiful and inviting. When prospective event producers tour the parks and see Ambassadors in action, it becomes an effortless sell — it truly sells itself.”
With the launch of the Ambassador program, Gatton Park is poised to follow this same path, becoming a lively destination for community gatherings, events, and everyday enjoyment.
Block by Block has a robust history working in downtowns since their first program launched in Louisville, KY in 1995. More than strictly a clean and safe service provider, Block by Block has developed an optimized operating model built on best practices, research, development and modern technology that has attracted partners in more than 850 locations nationwide, including improvement districts, parks, college campuses, transit systems and other public spaces.
For more information about Block by Block, visit https://www.blockbyblock.com/