Warren County approves nearly $4.4 million in park upgrades

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. — Warren County parks will soon see millions of dollars in improvements after Fiscal Court approved a series of projects aimed at enhancing playgrounds, athletic fields and park amenities across the county.

During Thursday’s meeting, Fiscal Court approved nearly $4.4 million in park-related projects, including new playground equipment, synthetic turf athletic fields and shaded seating at one of the county’s busiest sports complexes.

Parks Director Chris Kummer said the projects are part of the county’s long-term parks strategic plan, which was developed using feedback from residents about the improvements they wanted to see over the next several years.

“We wanted to take a whole-county approach so no matter where you live in Warren County, you’ll have improvements to your local or regional park,” Kummer said.

The largest project approved was a $2.97 million contract with Nationwide Sports Construction to install synthetic turf on the infields of 10 ballfields throughout the Warren County park system. The work includes four fields at Michael O. Buchanon Park, two fields at Ephram White Park, two fields at Phil Moore Park and two fields at Basil Griffin Park.

County officials said the synthetic turf will improve playability, reduce weather-related cancellations, lower maintenance costs and help attract more regional tournaments.

“We’re hoping this investment will pay for itself in a short time,” Kummer said. “It’s going to allow us to better serve our local leagues while making us more competitive throughout the region.”

Fiscal Court also approved a $988,868 contract with Miracle Playgrounds of Kentucky to install new playground equipment and ADA-accessible synthetic playground surfacing at multiple parks.

The project includes new playgrounds at Michael O. Buchanon Park, Ephram White Park, Phil Moore Park and Basil Griffin Park’s Shelter No. 3. New synthetic playground surfacing will also be installed at Gates Freeman Park, Paradise Playground and Smiths Grove Community Park, creating safer and more accessible play areas for children of all abilities.

In addition, Fiscal Court approved $424,381 for the installation of 16 cantilever shade structures over bleacher areas at Michael O. Buchanon Park. Officials said the shaded seating addresses one of the park’s most common complaints and will provide relief for families attending tournaments and league play during the warmer months.

Construction is expected to be scheduled around existing park programs and tournaments, with county leaders targeting completion of the athletic field improvements before the start of the 2027 spring sports season.

Judge-Executive Doug Gorman said the projects represent a significant investment in the county’s quality of life.

“I’m proud of this Fiscal Court for understanding the need to make serious quality-of-life upgrades with our parks and recreation system,” Gorman said.