Operation PRIDE gateway project proposed to Smiths Grove

SMITHS GROVE, Ky. – City leaders got their first look at a proposed gateway project that could one day welcome visitors to the community.

During Monday night’s city commission meeting, Operation PRIDE representatives presented plans for a monument similar to the gateways located at the entrances to Bowling Green.

Officials estimate the project would cost about $425,000, with all of the funding coming from donations and fundraising—not taxpayer dollars.

If the project moves forward, the city of Smiths Grove would be responsible for ongoing costs such as electricity to light the American flag, grounds maintenance, and water service.

“You know, the same 25 million cars that pass through Bowling Green pass through Smith’s Grove, and they could pull some more people off by building this gateway. There’s no doubt that the businesses will be helped,” said Operation PRIDE Co-Chairman Johnny Webb.

Organizers also said Operation PRIDE received compliments from across the country about the current gateways in Bowling Green and believe adding one in Smiths Grove will not just boost the economy, but the morale as well.

“Once this is built, this will instill pride in the people that live here. When people leave Smith’s Grove and they go to Louisville, and then they come back home and they see Smiths Grove, they’re going to say, we’re home.”

City leaders stressed the project is still in the proposal stage, and no final decisions have been made.