New park feedback session draws Logan County residents

RUSSELLVILLE, Ky. (WNKY) — Logan County residents spent Tuesday evening giving feedback on two design concepts for a proposed 241-acre county park, offering input on amenities ranging from amphitheaters to hiking trails.

The come-and-go session at the Logan County CTC allowed residents to study the plans and use green stickers to vote on features they want prioritized. Community member Jim Riley said the process gave residents meaningful influence over the future of the park.

“It’s something that everybody can participate in. And it’s just a wonderful thing for our community… asking the public to come out and express themselves,” Riley said. 

Judge-Executive Phil Baker said the two concepts vary mostly in layout, but both rely heavily on public input to determine which pieces move forward first.

“What we’re doing here tonight is… given the residents an opportunity to pick and choose what features of this new park they’re going to like,” Baker said. 

Baker said state lawmakers secured $3 million to purchase the land, and the county plans to rely on grants to fund construction rather than raising taxes. The land includes open space, rolling hills and wooded areas intended for trails and recreation.

Younger residents also took part. Micah, a child who attended the event, placed stickers on features including fishing areas and sports courts, saying he enjoys activities like basketball and spending time outdoors. 

Another student, Ezra, said he voted for recreation-focused features. “I like playing basketball. I just like doing sports,” he said. 

County leaders said turnout showed strong community interest among those that attended. Feedback gathered this week will help determine which amenities are prioritized in the first phase of development.