Mayor Alex Carter, City Of Nicholasville | City of Nicholasville's website
Mayor Alex Carter, City Of Nicholasville | City of Nicholasville's website
When the COVID-19 pandemic began in March 2020, it caused significant disruptions across various sectors. To mitigate these effects, the federal government introduced the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), which provided grant money to cities and counties nationwide. Nicholasville received over $8 million from this initiative.
Commissioners Alex Carter and Patty Teater have earmarked a portion of these funds for enhancing existing parks and developing new ones, as well as revitalizing downtown Nicholasville. An $800,000 budget has been set aside for park renovations and creating new attractions for residents.
Planned improvements at Lake Mingo Park include a splash pad, expanded walking trails, additional parking spaces, new restrooms, and improved lighting. Security cameras will be installed in all parks. Doug Blackford, Director of General Government, commented on the plans: “The splash pad will be an exciting addition to Lake Mingo. It will give kids an opportunity to rip, run, and have some fun!”
Commissioner Teater emphasized the importance of maintaining city growth while improving existing amenities: “We believe it is important to continue growing with the City but also focus on the things we have. Allocating funds to bettering our parks, making them safe, clean, and good parks to escape to felt like the right thing to do for the people in this City.”
Additionally, $500,000 from ARPA funds are designated for downtown improvements through the Downtown Revitalization Grant initiated in September 2022. These efforts aim to attract more visitors by repairing buildings and assisting property owners.
The Cleaner Water Grant also contributes financially with $2 million allocated for Water Plant Transmission Main Expansion and $860,000 towards sanitary sewer rehabilitation.
Teater expressed enthusiasm about ongoing projects: “We are very excited about the plans that we have started working on and proud of the things we have already accomplished,” she said. “Stay tuned Nicholasville; exciting things are coming!”
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