Governor Matt Bevin and other state officials on Friday morning announced plans for another $20 million in upgrades to Kentucky State Parks.
It’s for Phase II of the Commonwealth’s ‘Refreshing the Finest’ initiative that has already invested $18 million in maintenance and operational improvements to the Kentucky State Parks system.
Last year’s General Assembly allocated an additional $20 million to replace park lodge roofs, upgrade campgrounds, repair wastewater treatment plants, fix swimming pools and make other facility repairs.
Utility improvements at Lake Barkley State Resort Park in Trigg County are included in the plans. All 17 resort parks will receive hospitality upgrades that include items such as new furniture, flooring, paint, fixtures and more.
Kentucky State Parks Commissioner Donnie Holland says, “This additional funding will help us maintain important parts of the park infrastructure. With 49 state parks and 1,800 buildings, we have a long list of repairs and upgrades.”
Governor Matt Bevin is quoted in a news release as saying, “Kentucky’s state parks are a true gem, and we are dusting them off so that they will once again sparkle and shine. This additional $20 million investment will facilitate upgrades to provide park patrons with first-class opportunities to experience the Commonwealth’s unparalleled natural beauty and history.”