Nicholasville & Jessamine County Unite for Unprecedented Investment
In a powerful show of unity and vision, Nicholasville and Jessamine County have sparked a full-fledged parks renaissance — transforming local green spaces into dynamic, community-defining assets. Over the past two years, this rapidly growing Central Kentucky region has seen its park system expand not only in size but also in quality, scope, and vision.
“In the 10 years I’ve been Judge/Executive, the city and county have worked hard to support each other and take positive steps forward together,” said Jessamine County Judge/Executive David West. “This collaboration shows what’s possible when we focus on what truly matters — the people we serve.”
Big Dreams, Bigger Parks
The partnership has led to landmark acquisitions and enhancements:
- The City of Nicholasville purchased the former Lone Oak Country Club, adding an additional public swimming pool and former 18-hole golf course to its properties.
- Jessamine County acquired land adjacent to the existing John Preece Park, expanding the park’s footprint and setting the stage for even more amenities.
Together, these investments added 216 acres to the local park system, which now spans 466 acres across the county — a 150% increase in public recreation space.
“Parks shape how people experience where they live. They bring families together, encourage wellness, and build a stronger sense of community,” said Nicholasville Mayor Alex Carter. “Thanks to these federal funds and our shared vision, we’ve been able to dream bigger — and deliver on it.
From Pickleball to a Premier Rec Center
Enhancements are already visible across the system: a new splash pad, restrooms, pickleball courts, and a donated turf field — originally used at the Caesars Superdome by the New Orleans Saints — which is now a regional draw for athletic events and community use.
Plans for the former golf course are in development. However, a new driving range will open in the city’s newest park, located at the end of Lone Oak Drive, in May, accompanied by a ribbon-cutting ceremony and a “Long Drive Contest.”
And the centerpiece of this renaissance is coming soon. The John Preece Park Recreation Center, a joint $11 million construction project shared equally between the city and county. The 59,000-square-foot facility will feature four full-size basketball courts, meeting rooms, and event spaces — anchoring what will become a more than 100-acre sports and recreation complex. The groundbreaking is planned for May 8 at 1 p.m.
“The Recreation Center is more than a building — it’s a symbol of what’s possible when we invest in people’s well-being,” said Mayor Carter.
Multi-purpose paths have been added along the recently extended Eastern Bypass and are under development along KY 29 between West Jessamine High and Middle Schools, making many of the parks more accessible. The community has miles of walking/biking paths completed or underway.
People Powering the Vision
Behind the bricks and blueprints lies a team dedicated to creating parks that are inclusive, accessible, and vibrant with activity.
That includes director Anessa Snowden, who joined the Nicholasville-Jessamine County Parks and Recreation Department last year. A certified recreation therapist and EKU alum, Snowden brings a wealth of experience in park and event management honed in multiple states.
“We want to create more recreation and leisure opportunities for our younger kids to our active aging population along with providing beautiful parks for the community to enjoy. There can be something for everyone!” Snowden said. “With the addition of the new community recreation center, we will soon be adding more recreation programming for all ages and abilities. We will have opportunities for active and passive recreation. It’s great to see the community and its leadership on fire for parks and to be a part of something spectacular – our Parks and Recreation Department.”
There is much work to be done to bring the parks up to the level that Snowden and community leaders aspire to. Well-manicured, attractive, and engaging parks require sustained support, which is a commitment that elected leaders have made for the community.
In the meantime, Snowden invites everyone in the region to join in the many options for lifetime activities in Nicholasville, which include family fun days and community foot races held throughout the year.
Residents and visitors are also invited to enjoy the recently renovated Aquatic Center, which offers updated amenities and seasonal programming for all ages.
To learn more, view upcoming events, or get involved, visit https://njcpr.org. And for local government information, visit nicholasville.org and jessamineky.gov
Comprehensive List of Improvements:
John Preece Park:
Construction of Multi-Purpose turf field
Currently planning for construction of concession and restroom facilities
Riney B Park:
Riney B Aquatics Center pool renovations
Performance Stage
Lake Mingo Park:
New Splash Pad
Updated walking trail with new asphalt
New public bathrooms
New parking lot to increase parking
Accessible fishing pier
City County Park:
Blacktop resurfacing and parking area expansion
New border fencing
New pickleball court construction
Lone Oak:
Purchase Lone Oak Golf Course and Pool
Pool construction project
New pickleball courts
Golf driving range
Rock Fence Park:
Performance Stage
City leaders pose with shovels and hard hats during the Community Recreation Center groundbreaking. Pictured from left to right are Finance and Utilities Director Bob Amato, Commissioners Dexter Knight and Pete Sutherland, Mayor Alex Carter, Commissioners Patty Teater and Bethany Davis Brown, City Manager Doug Blackford and future Commissioner Davis Brown.
