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By: Stacey Walters | September 17, 2025
The University of Pikeville (UPIKE) Kentucky College of Optometry (KYCO) proudly hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new Town Mountain Eye Clinic, officially opening its doors to the community. The event occurred at 387 Town Mountain Road in Pikeville, Ky., with faculty, staff, students and local leaders in attendance.
The ribbon cutting marks a significant milestone in KYCO’s mission to provide comprehensive eye care services while advancing clinical training opportunities for optometry students. The new facility expands access to vision care for residents in the region, ensuring that patients of all ages can benefit from state-of-the-art diagnostic tools and compassionate care.
“We know this region has historically faced limited access to eye care. Too many neighbors have gone without timely exams, diagnoses and treatment,” said Dean of KYCO, Renee Reeder, O.D., FAAO, FBCLA, FSLS, FIACLE. “With this renovation, we affirm our role as good members of the community, standing with Pikeville residents to ensure excellent care is available close to home.”
The Town Mountain Eye Clinic is now accepting appointments, offering a wide range of services including routine eye exams, contact lens fittings and treatment for ocular conditions. With the clinic’s opening, patients can expect quality care from a team dedicated to improving vision health and serving Appalachia.
Kentucky State Senator Phillip Wheeler, J.D., reflected on the personal significance of the moment, sharing that the space once housed his father’s ophthalmology practice and now stands ready to serve the next generation of patients.
“My father practiced ophthalmology here for 38 years, and this office was, in many ways, a second home to me growing up,” said Wheeler. “The region of Eastern Kentucky has always been deeply important to my family, and I’m proud that this clinic will carry forward the mission of serving our neighbors’ vision needs through exceptional optometric care.”
UPIKE remains committed to training the next generation of optometrists while meeting the vision needs of Kentucky and beyond. The Town Mountain Eye Clinic will serve as both a premier learning environment and a trusted resource for the community.