Lt. Gov. Coleman Announces Nearly $300,000 in Funding to Improve Parks in Christian County

HOPKINSVILLE, Ky. (Jun. 13, 2022) - Today,Lt. Gov. Jacqueline Coleman presented $292,500 in funding for three projects that improve parks and expand recreational trails in Christian County.

The funding comes through the Recreational Trails Program (RTP) and the federal Land & Water Conservation Fund (LWCF). Both programs are administered by the Department for Local Government.

"We know that today's infrastructure cannot sustain the jobs of tomorrow," said Lt. Gov. Coleman. "That is why we are investing in our communities like never before to help them build roads, bridges and outdoor spaces and update water systems."

"I'm pleased to see that these improvements are going to become reality and appreciate everyone who made today's news possible," said Rep. Myron Dossett of Pembroke.

"Thriving communities provide not only essential services and commerce but also green space and parks where families can rest and play," said Sen. Whitney Westerfield of Crofton. "Ruff Park, the park and trailhead at Pardue Lane, and Gordon Park in Crofton, are some of the best places in our community to do just that. I'm grateful for the investments in these places that our people love and use year-round."

"This is great news for Christian County. Parks play a major role in our community, providing a gathering place, recreation and green space," said Rep. Walker Thomas of Hopkinsville. "I appreciate the Lieutenant Governor's visit and the opportunity to show we can do great things when we work together."

Rep. Jason Petrie of Elkton said, "Maintaining and improving the resources we have, like our parks, goes a long way in improving the quality of life here in Christian County. Today's announcement is great news."

Ruff Park
Christian County was awarded an LWCF grant for $142,500. The funding will be used for improvements at Ruff Park. This includes construction of a new restroom/concession facility, replacing playground equipment, and resurfacing the parking lot. Ruff Park is the primary park for all youth sports in Christian County, where over 400 youths participate in baseball and soccer annually.

"This grant will assist Christian Fiscal Court in replacing a 50-year-old concession stand and restrooms at the Ruff Park ball fields," said Judge/Executive Steve Tribble. "The new facility is much needed, and we appreciate Governor Beshear and the legislators, as well as DLG staff for the help provided."

Pardue Lane Park Trail
The City of Hopkinsville was awarded an RTP grant for $100,000. The funding will be used to construct over half a mile of new trails. The trails will provide a link from the Hopkinsville Greenway System to Pardue Lake Park.

"The City of Hopkinsville is excited to be a recipient of this very important recreational trails grant," said Hopkinsville Mayor Wendell Lynch. "This will serve to enhance our growing Greenway System, which has become the pride of our community and encourages health and fitness."

Crofton Park
The City of Crofton was awarded an LWCF grant for $50,000. The funding will be used for improvements at Crofton Park. Unsafe lights and lighting poles will be removed and replaced around the ballfields. The new lighting will be energy efficient.

"On behalf of the City of Crofton, I would like to express my sincerest gratitude, for being selected by DLG for funding through the LWCF. This will benefit the city and the Gordon Park by allowing us to replace aging light poles and ball lights," said Crofton Mayor Danny Lacy. "The park is a popular place for families from Crofton and the surrounding counties as well. Thank you, Governor Beshear, Lt. Governor Coleman, Kentucky state legislators and the Pennyrile Area Development District for your help."

About the Land and Water Conservation Fund
The LWCF provides federal grant funds to protect important natural areas, to acquire land for outdoor recreation and to develop or renovate public outdoor recreation facilities such as campgrounds, picnic areas, sports and playfields, swimming facilities, boating facilities, fishing facilities, trails, natural areas and passive parks. To receive the federal funds, which are administered at the state level by the Department for Local Government, selected applicants must undergo federal review and receive approval from the National Park Service.

About the Recreational Trails Program
The RTP is funded by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). It can be used to provide assistance for acquisition of easements, development and/or maintenance of recreational trails and trailhead facilities for both motorized and non-motorized use. The Recreational Trails Program benefits communities and enhances quality of life. All trails that have received FHWA funding must remain open to the public and maintained for perpetuity.

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