71. Burgess Carey on Ecotourism, Flex Space, and Why Lexington Needs Creative Developers

DevelopLex

In this episode of DevelopLex, we sit down with Burgess Carey, a multi-generational Lexingtonian, developer, and visionary behind some of Central Kentucky’s most forward-thinking real estate and recreation projects. From pioneering self-storage development to reclaiming a forgotten gorge to launch Boone Creek Outdoors, Burgess shares a rare blend of entrepreneurial grit, environmental stewardship, and deep civic insight.We explore Lexington’s unique development challenges - from zoning hurdles to greenbelt restrictions - and why the future will require creative, regional collaboration. Whether he’s automating flex industrial spaces or building sustainable treehouse retreats, Burgess brings clarity, purpose, and originality to the local development conversation.--Core Themes Discussed:Lexington at a Crossroads: The city is vibrant—but at a pivotal moment. The next 50 years depend on how we balance preservation and progress.From Self-Storage to Sustainability: Burgess shares how he transformed an overlooked niche into a scalable model—and why tech is changing everything.Reimagining Green Space: Not all ag land is horse farms. Burgess challenges Lexington to create interactive, publicly accessible outdoor destinations.Experience Economy in Action: Boone Creek Outdoors proves development can be immersive, environmentally regenerative, and economically sustainable.Advice for Aspiring Developers: Read the zoning code, follow the community conversation, and don’t force a deal—if it doesn’t pencil, walk away.--Highlights:Why Lexington was a self-storage pioneer long before Wall Street took noticeThe story behind Boone Creek’s abandoned gas station, leaky fuel tanks, and trout-filled transformationWhat dynamic pricing and Bluetooth locks mean for the future of light industrial real estateHow the “contractor unit” market is changing—and why it’s worth building forWhy regional planning, not just urban density, is key to solving housing and job shortages--Guest Bio:Burgess Carey is a Lexington-born developer, business owner, and founder of Boone Creek Outdoors. From building self-storage facilities in the early ‘90s to leading eco-tourism and flex industrial projects today, he brings a rare depth of perspective to what it means to create lasting value for Central Kentucky.--Hosted by Weston Lockhart & Ross BoggessDevelopLex is proud to be supported by:SVN Stone Commercial Real EstateCommunity Trust BankCraftsman Contractors