An official grand opening was recently held for the new Rowan County Park.
The park off KY 801 spans 150 acres of land and is set to feature baseball and softball fields, basketball, tennis, and pickleball courts, walking trails, horse stables, two preexisting fishing ponds, fenced dog areas, an amphitheater, and a paved walking trail.
Judge Executive Harry Clark said as the funding stands now the park is expected to take five to seven years to complete, but he believes it will be well worth it.
“I think it will help us bring economic development to the county and I think it will give all citizens something to be proud of and something they want invest in,” Clark said. “And it’s just a joy. I come out here now and people are already walking and walking their dogs and enjoying the ponds and it’s just an exciting time.”
Governor Andy Beshear’s Senior Advisor, Rocky Adkins, spoke at the opening ceremony. He said places like the park add value to the state and give the local community an opportunity to get away from the noise.
“It’s another asset, a valuable asset, a positive asset. And then if you look regionally maybe people that want to move here and be a part of this community. Or if we’re recruiting business and industry, that we’re able to offer this as another part of the equation as to why you ought to come to Morehead, Rowan County,” Adkins said. “I think it really brings all of those things and helps make this community a more competitive place in the future.”
While it is still under construction the park is open to the public and officials encourage people to take a visit and take in the landscape’s beauty. So far, a pavilion and a small fishing pier on one of the ponds are the only features complete.