Bowling Green’s Neighborhood Improvement Program Progresses

Bowling Green’s Neighborhood Improvement Program Moves Forward

Bowling Green is taking steps to enhance its neighborhoods as city commissioners made significant decisions during their Tuesday night meeting. Approving a contract of $400,000 with Live The Dream Development Inc., the city plans to improve the exteriors of 47 homes in the Delafield area. This initiative is a part of the ongoing Neighborhood Improvement Program, which has been active since 2017.

Current Project Scope and Goals

According to Brent Childers, the director of Neighborhood and Community Services, the goal of the program is to boost the curb appeal of homes throughout Bowling Green. The current focus is on block group 102.4, which includes areas stretching from Ky. 185 to Hobson Grove Park, bounded by the Barren River and Old Barren River Road.

Childers described the types of improvements being made, stating, “Some of these have been new roofs, some of these have been new windows, new siding, [and] removing fences.” Residents will benefit from an estimated $8,500 for each property upgrade under the agreement. Homeowners can receive up to $7,500 of exterior improvements costs covered by the program, while landlords must contribute 20%, and businesses are required to contribute 50%.

Application Process for Homeowners

For homeowners interested in taking part in this initiative, applications are available in-person at the Housing Authority of Bowling Green. Childers emphasized that applicants need to provide contact information and details about the projects they wish to complete. The city anticipates that work in the Delafield area may begin within the next 30 to 45 days.

Enhancing the City’s Entrance with New Gateway

Veterans Memorial Lane and Kentucky Street. This project is expected to add a respectful aesthetic to the city’s entrances, similar to the gateways already established along Interstates 65 and 165. The cost for this construction is anticipated to range from $225,000 to $230,000, shared between the city and Operation PRIDE.

Funding and Project Logistics

City Manager Jeff Meisel confirmed during the meeting that the city is willing to contribute up to $115,000 for the project. “This will really improve the looks of that lot,” he remarked. The land designated for the gateway has been generously donated by the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet.

Operation PRIDE head Melanie Lawrence highlighted the positive feedback from other municipalities regarding the gateway project. “We receive calls from all over the state wanting to know how we’re doing this,” she shared. As Kentucky Street serves as a route for many visitors, the new gateway will create a warm and inviting first impression of Bowling Green.

Future Plans for Tree Planting

Looking further ahead, Lawrence mentioned that aside from the gateway, Operation PRIDE also plans to plant 325 trees along roads in the area over the next year, enhancing the green landscape of Bowling Green.

Other Developments

In addition to these projects, the commissioners are also moving forward with a grant application for $690,785 to the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet. This funding will help improve half a mile of Commerce Street.

The next city commission meeting is scheduled for November 19, as the previously planned meeting for November 5 has been canceled. With these initiatives, Bowling Green continues to strive for a better and more vibrant community.