KY-16 will close early Saturday morning to make room for a massive cupola being delivered to the new Downs of Nicholson development in Independence.
The cupola will sit atop the 50-acre development’s central building, which is modeled after the Manchester Barn in Lexington in keeping with the development’s horse farm theme. The 400 steel-ton building will eventually house the 1842 Barleycorn’s Brewhouse & Limestone Restaurant.
At 4 a.m. this Saturday, the cupola will begin its transport from where it was manufactured at Fields Welding in Walton five miles away to the site of the development. KY-16 will be closed throughout the cupola’s journey. Drivers who frequent the area at that time should plan accordingly.
The development is the brain child of Gary Holland of the One Holland Restaurant group, which owns multiple businesses in the region.
“We wanted to pay tribute to the Manchester Barn, because it holds such an iconic place in thoroughbred racing and breeding history,” said Barleycorn’s CEO Jay Shelton. “So many of the people at Barleycorn’s, along with those involved in the making of the cupola, are from Independence that we wanted to something special for the community. People will see for themselves that this is a spectacular structure. The structure is so massive that it contains 400 tons of steel. This will be a true sight to behold.”
“Our city on a hill has long been known for its cupolas, the most prominent of which is the Historic Kenton County Courthouse,” said Independence Mayor Chris Reinersman. “Well, there’s a new kid in town. This massive cupola that will shine above The Downs of Nicholson will serve as a beacon to this incredible, one-of-a-kind destination.”
The building is scheduled to open in the spring. Learn more about the development here.
