KENTUCKY — Gov. Andy Beshear announced 41 projects totaling over $4.3 million to receive funds from the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) on Monday. The projects will be upgrading parks and recreation spaces across the Commonwealth.
What You Need To Know
- Beshear announces 41 projects totaling over $4.3 million to receive funds from the Land and Water Conservation Fund
- Projects will upgrade parks and recreation spaces
- Applicants must undergo federal review and receive approval from the National Park Service to receive funding
- Middletown, Ashland, Elizabethtown among the communities receiving funds
According to a release from the governor's office, LWCF is "a federal program designed to protect important natural areas, help local communities acquire land for outdoor recreation spaces and to develop or renovate public, outdoor recreation spaces such as campgrounds, picnic areas, sports and playfields, swimming, boating or fishing facilities, trails, natural areas and passive parks."
“Parks and recreation spaces are an important part of every Kentucky community,” said Beshear. “They provide safe spaces for exercise, community-building and leisure, which are all important factors in ensuring Kentuckians are healthy and happy. Ultimately, parks and recreation spaces are a critical piece in building a better Kentucky for every family.”
Applicants must undergo federal review and receive approval from the National Park Service to receive funding, which is administered at the state level by the Department for Local Government (DLG).
“The Land and Water Conservation Fund will provide crucial funding for communities in every corner of Kentucky,” said DLG Commissioner Dennis Keene. “We are grateful these funds will upgrade Kentucky parks with accessible trails, playgrounds and more for every Kentuckian to enjoy.”
The funds will go toward a variety of projects. For instance, Elizabethtown will use $250,000 for a nearly full replacement and renovation of its Funtopia playground. The city plans to replace a wood structure with a modern metal or plastic composite structure, add new playground equipment, and construct ADA-accessible paths, ramps, and platforms.
Burnside in Pulaski County plans to use $106,553 to construct a trail with a view of Lake Cumberland along Highway 2295. The project also includes adding signage, benches, trash receptacles, and lighting along the trail.
In Jefferson County, Middletown will use $63,181 to add a picnic shelter at Wetherby Park with four ADA-accessible picnic tables. The city will also add benches and trash receptacles throughout the park.
The full list of which communities are receiving funding, how much, and what the funds will go toward can be found here.