News Summary
Bowling Green Parks and Recreation is initiating a 10-year master plan to improve parks and recreational facilities in the community. They invite public input through community sessions and an online survey. The first session is scheduled for March 17 at the Sloan Convention Center and will include discussions on park usage and future needs. MKSK consultants have been hired to guide the planning process, promoting community engagement and inclusion in shaping Bowling Green’s outdoor spaces.
Bowling Green Parks and Recreation Seeks Your Input for a Better Tomorrow!
Bowling Green is all set to shape the future of its parks and recreational facilities with an exciting new initiative! The Bowling Green Parks and Recreation (BGPR) department has kicked off the process of creating a 10-year master plan that aims to tap into the wishes and needs of its vibrant community. And guess what? They want to hear from you!
Why All the Buzz?
With the last master plan, which was rolled out back in 2014, nearly all goals have been achieved. This past plan brought some fantastic upgrades, including the glittering Riverfront Park project, thrilling whitewater rafting facilities, and expanded pickleball amenities. Now, the city is ready to take it to the next level, and they can’t do it without your thoughts and ideas.
Be Part of the Conversation!
Mark your calendars for March 17, when BGPR will host the first community engagement session at the Sloan Convention Center from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. This is your chance to have your voice heard and share your thoughts on current park usage and what you’d love to see in the future. It’s not just about the adults, either; BGPR has already been proactive by hitting the ground running with pop-up events at local high schools and youth sports gatherings. Youngsters are showing a keen interest in adding more turf fields for soccer, citing overcrowding at places like Lampkin Park!
What’s Coming Up Next?
This session is just the beginning. There will be two more opportunities for community participation. A follow-up meeting will take place during the Duncan Hines Days in June, where residents can offer their feedback on proposed ideas. After all the discussions, a final gathering will present the completed master plan to the public. It’s all about making sure that what gets prioritized truly reflects the wishes of the Bowling Green community.
Get Involved Online!
Can’t make it to the meetings? No problem! An online survey will be available at bgprmasterplan.com, so everyone can have a say, regardless of their schedule. This is a great way to share your ideas and ensure you are part of this exciting planning process.
Financial Backing and Ambitious Projects
To help steer this ambitious master plan, the Bowling Green city commissioners have given the green light to hire the consultant firm MKSK for a fee of $193,000. They’re bringing in the experts to make sure every angle is covered.
As part of the excitement, plans are also underway for the Barren River Whitewater Park. A grant application is in the works for an impressive amount of $3.64 million from the National Park Service to kickstart this exhilarating project. The total estimated investment for the whitewater park is pegged at $7.28 million, with the city prepared to pitch in 50 percent of the funding. This park aims to enhance recreational options and ensure safe access for all, including users with disabilities—what a thoughtful touch!
Your Ideas Matter
The BGPR team is committed to gathering feedback from various outreach programs. They recognize that community voices are vital in shaping a parks and recreation landscape that everyone can enjoy. Whether you’re a park regular or an occasional visitor, your insights will directly influence how the city enhances its green spaces for years to come.
So, whether you are a seasoned park lover, a parent of active kids, or someone who just enjoys a peaceful walk in the park, get involved! This is your chance to make Bowling Green’s parks experience even better.
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Additional Resources
- WBKO: Bowling Green Parks and Recreation Looking for Input on 10-Year Plan
- Wikipedia: Parks and Recreation
- WNKY: City Seeks Grant Funds for New Barren River Whitewater Park Project
- Google Search: Bowling Green Parks
- BG Daily News: Parks News
- Google Scholar: Urban Parks Planning
- The Lane Report: Grant Sought to Create Whitewater Park in Downtown Bowling Green
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Recreation
