Bowling Green Pursues Grant Funding for Ambitious Whitewater Park Project on the Barren River

The City of Bowling Green has officially set in motion their plans to create a whitewater recreational park, right in the heart of their downtown. On Tuesday, the Bowling Green Board of Commissioners agreed to submit a grant application to seek funds for the park, known as the Barren River Whitewater Park Project.

Plans for the Whitewater Park Project

According to a recent press release, the project involves replacing the existing dam on the Barren River with five instream drop structures. These structures are designed to provide safe and fun sporting opportunities for whitewater enthusiasts. Additionally, they will improve river accessibility for anglers, instream splashers, and individuals with disabilities.

In a statement, Bowling Green’s Mayor Todd Alcott described how the project is envisioned to transform the city. “Activating our river as a safe, outdoor recreation space for residents and visitors reminds us that Bowling Green is always on the move and improving our quality of life,” said Mayor Alcott.

The Project’s Impact and its Regional Context

Notably, the nearest whitewater park is a long 4.5-hour drive away from Bowling Green currently. So, this upcoming project fills a major void for nearly 9.3 million people residing in the surrounding region.

According to Brent Childers, Director of Neighborhood and Community Services, the whitewater park project will take the city’s Riverfront Park plans to a whole different level. He states, “Our Riverfront Park will be an excellent local amenity with lots of new outdoor recreation features, but securing this whitewater park would make it a true destination for adventure travelers and enthusiasts.”

Cost and Funding

The estimated total cost of the ambitious Barren River Whitewater Park Project amounts to $7.28 million. The City of Bowling Green has committed to providing half the necessary funds for the project.

Popularity and Reception

The Riverfront Park master plan was unveiled back in January, following extensive research and feedback collection from around 3,000 members of the community. Whitewater sports emerged as one of the top five community preferences for Riverfront Park’s future, solidifying the Whitewater Park Project’s relevance and necessity.

Andy Knight, from the MKSK design firm working on the Riverfront Park, acknowledged this feedback. “Access and reconnecting with the Barren River ranked at the top of the list. In addition to fishing piers and riverside paths and trails, the incorporation of the whitewater park in the overall master plan offers a variety of opportunities for people to reconnect with the Downtown river corridor,” said Knight.

City officials hope the transformation of Bowling Green’s riverfront will spark the next chapter in Bowling Green’s history and bring about lasting and far-reaching improvements to the city.