LEXINGTON, Ky. (LEX News) — State and local leaders gathered Monday to dedicate the James “Jim” R. Mahan Memorial Highway, honoring a longtime Fayette County farmer and advocate whose contributions helped shape Kentucky agriculture.
State Rep. Vanessa Grossl announced the designation, which recognizes Mahan’s decades of service to the agricultural industry, education and the Fayette County community.
“Jim Mahan dedicated his life to agriculture, to his community, and to serving others,” Grossl said in a statement. “It is an incredible honor to help ensure that his name and legacy remain a permanent part of the community he loved so deeply.”
Mahan served in several leadership roles throughout his career, including as president of the Thoroughbred Farm Managers Club, Fayette County Farm Bureau and the University of Kentucky College of Agriculture Alumni Association. He also served on the Fayette County Extension Council, 4-H Council, Kentucky Agricultural Development Board and Kentucky Farm Bureau Insurance Board.
Family members, friends, fellow agriculture leaders, members of the Lexington Lions Club and state and local officials attended the dedication ceremony, which featured the unveiling of the memorial highway sign.
Grossl said Mahan’s impact extended beyond agriculture through his commitment to service and community involvement.
“Jim’s legacy is one of hard work, service, faith and a deep commitment to the people and land of Fayette County,” Grossl said. “Naming this highway in his honor is a fitting tribute to a man who spent his life strengthening Kentucky agriculture and investing in the community he called home.”
The roadway designation stems from House Joint Resolution 93, which Grossl filed during the 2026 Regular Session of the Kentucky General Assembly. The designation was later included in Senate Joint Resolution 139, a broader road and bridge naming measure that was signed into law in April.
