Game-Changing Park Upgrades
Thanks to a collaborative partnership between the City of Nicholasville, Jessamine County Fiscal Court, Nicholasville/Jessamine County Parks & Recreation, and others – 2023 was the year of park upgrades!
Upon their field’s replacement each year, the New Orleans Saints NFL team donates the Caesars Superdome turf from the previous season to worthy projects around the country. This past year, our community was the chosen recipient!
Turf Alliance, a sports construction company, shared the opportunity to apply for this donation for use at the John Preece Park Athletic Facility. This marks the first time this donation was awarded to a Kentucky community.
The turf was used to create football and soccer fields, and because NFL fields are so large, there will be turf left over for other projects. The extra turf will be used to build high school softball fields and youth baseball fields.
“We are delighted to have a little bit of NOLA here in Nicholasville,” said Doug Blackford, Director of General Government. “We think this will improve the quality of youth sports and spectating tenfold.”
-Doug Blackford, Director General Government
Plans for the construction of a new stadium are also underway. This stadium will include bleachers, locker rooms, concession stands, restroom facilities, and more, making it the perfect addition to Jessamine County for sports players and fans alike. The City aims to begin hosting games at the new facilities in spring 2024.
Phase two of this development will be a multi-purpose indoor facility near John Preece Park. This facility will include a gymnasium, indoor walking track, as well as community rooms for meetings and parties. Bids for this phase of construction are expected to be accepted beginning in late 2024.
Other park updates include the completion of the splash pad at Lake Mingo Park. Come spring 2024, all community members are welcome to head down to the park and enjoy a sunny day splashing around in the new water features, as well as the park’s resurfaced walk path.
Rock Fence Park on 3rd Street also got a makeover in 2023. New playground equipment was installed for kids, and a concert stage was built for residents of all ages to enjoy. Stay tuned for updates on concerts at the park.
Park improvements are thanks in part to American Rescue Act Plan (ARPA) funding. City Commissioners are proud to dedicate time, effort, and funds towards facilities for the betterment of the lives of Nicholasville residents
