Riverfront Park Development Project

An exciting development is underway on the riverfront. The purpose of the Riverfront Park Development Project is to revitalize the destressed park areas for new outdoor opportunities for public benefit and enjoyment.

Mission Statement

Riverfront Park is dedicated to igniting a spirit of adventure and exploration in our community. We will provide a dynamic outdoor space where families and visitors can engage in thrilling activities, from kayaking and hiking to festivals and nature walks. Our mission is to inspire a love for the great outdoors, promote wellness through active living, and celebrate the natural beauty of the Barren River. Together, we foster a vibrant community that embraces adventure and creates unforgettable memories in the heart of Bowling Green.

About Bowling Green Riverfront Park

Bowling Green Riverfront Park Conservancy is the 501(c)3 that operates the day-to-day care of Bowling Green Riverfront Park, in partnership with the Bowling Green City Park Improvement Association, and oversees programming, fundraising, and membership management of the 71-acre park. The park will provided access to abundant natural, civic and outdoor activities to residents of the region and visitors from the surrounding states. The Park’s 71 acres and natural river make it one of the most unique locations in the state of Kentucky. Riverfront Park is a popular place to fish on the kayak, bike, walk/run, picnic, experience safe outdoor play, or engage in athletic outdoor pursuits—predicted by the more than 1 million unique visits each year. The Park’s annual operating budget is largely derived from self-generated activities, often weather dependent. The Park’s walking trails, forest, and open spaces continue to be a respite to the public. To learn more about the Park and to contribute to help maintain its green spaces and community programs, visit BGRiverfrontPark.org.

Bowling Green Riverfront Park Facts

Bowling Green Riverfront Park encompasses 71 acres 
The park will include 5-7 miles of walking and nature trails and 3 miles of bike trails.
The River Rapids – Kayaking and Paddle boarding
 In addition to offering an array of recreation and cultural amenities, Riverfront Park is committed to preserving natural habitats and biodiversity in the Park

Project Phases

The project is divided into four phases:

PHASE 1

Phase I construction is underway with completion expected Summer 2026. The ‘front porch’ of Riverfront Park, Phase I includes bench swings and sun benches for a Barren River Overlook, picnic grove, rock and trail meadow, event lawn, a Barren River boat ramp, infrastructure and supporting facilities.

PHASE 2

Scott, Murphy and Daniel recently joined the team to serve as construction manager for Phase II. Currently in the design process, Phase II is slated to begin construction Fall 2026. Phase II encompasses an observation mound, play galleries, event lawn, water feature and plaza, food truck arcade, infrastructure, supporting facilities and other recreational amenities. Here is a link to a Bowling Green Daily News article related to the City hiring SMD as CMAR for Phase II.

PHASE 3

Phase III of Riverfront Park entails a whitewater park within the Barren River. Currently in the design process, the new whitewater park is expected to enter the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers permitting process in 2027 and being construction in 2028.

PHASE 4

The City was recently awarded $16,000,000 from the Kentucky General Assembly for Phase IV of Riverfront Park. Phase IV includes infrastructure and supporting facilities for current and future recreational amenities such as a boulder climbing park, treetop canopy walk, adventure bike track, mountain bike trails, nature play area, event lawn, observation pier, and waterfront promenade. Here is a link to a Bowling Green Daily News article related to the City receiving $16,000,000 for Phase IV.