As Nicholasville continues to grow as one of Kentucky’s fastest-developing cities, so does the importance of accessible, inclusive, and high-quality parks and recreation services. In a recent City Notes interview, Anessa Snowden, Director of Nicholasville-Jessamine County Parks and Recreation, shared how her department is adapting to meet the evolving needs of the community.
“If you see something, say something,” Snowden added, encouraging community feedback. “We want our parks to reflect the pride we have in this place—and in each other.”
A Lifetime of Experience, A Passion for Recreation
Anessa Snowden brings nearly two decades of experience to her role, including program leadership in Las Vegas and Lexington, and a background in both therapeutic recreation and special education. She is driven by a belief in the transformative power of parks for physical wellness, mental health, and community connection.
Serving the Whole Person
Snowden emphasized that parks and recreation serve all aspects of human health—spiritual, mental, and physical. Whether someone prefers a walk in nature, a vibrant community event, or a competitive sport, the department strives to offer programs and spaces that meet people where they are.
Accessibility and Inclusivity at the Core
Accessibility is more than ADA compliance. For Parks and Recreation, it means ensuring that programs, facilities, and park locations are accessible and welcoming to everyone. Snowden explained that the department is committed to providing accommodations when needed and placing parks where they are convenient for families and individuals across the city.
Keeping Up With a Growing Community
As the city expands, the Parks and Recreation team is focused on enhancing existing parks, replacing outdated playgrounds, and launching new amenities, including a new 59,000-square-foot community recreation center off the bypass. The center will feature multi-use spaces that cater to all ages and interests.
Snowden joked that they might outgrow the new building quickly, a testament to the city’s need for quality recreation space.
Easy Ways to Get Involved
For residents—especially newcomers—who want to engage with parks and programming, Snowden recommends:
- Following Nicholasville-Jessamine County Parks & Recreation on Facebook for timely updates
- Visiting njcpr.org for info on programs, events, and facility rentals
- Using the new RECDesk registration system to sign up for camps, passes, and leagues right from a smartphone or computer
New Additions and Summer Highlights
The department is especially excited about:
- New lit pickleball courts at City-County Park.
- Aquatic Center reopening Memorial Day through Labor Day, with affordable daily and season passes.
- Lake Mingo splash pad, open through fall break, free to the public.
- Concerts at Rock Fence and Riney B Park, plus active youth and adult leagues in basketball, softball, and volleyball.
Looking Ahead
Snowden and her team are already thinking long-term. More trails, biking areas, passive spaces like butterfly gardens, and picnic-friendly environments are all on the wish list. Their mission: to provide high-quality parks, programs, and customer service that enhance the quality of life for all Nicholasville and Jessamine County residents.
To learn more, visit NJCPR.org or follow Nicholasville Parks and Recreation on Facebook.
To listen to the full interview, visit https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GzE5E2lHs4w