Owensboro details upgrades, events and accessibility plans for Rudy Mines trails and Moreland Park

Amanda Rogers, Parks Director for the city of Owensboro, told the Board of Commissioners on April 15 that the Rudy Mines trail system and Moreland Park will see a series of improvements intended to preserve natural resources, support events and improve accessibility.

Rogers said Rudy Mines, part of Ben Hawes Park and accessed off Highway 60 West, comprises almost 200 acres of woodland and drew more than 16,700 visits in 2024, including users from several states. "The primary user group at this location is our mountain biking population," Rogers said, adding that the city has hosted the Kentucky Interscholastic Cycling League state tournament and will host the Blue Grass Mountain Cup in July.

The parks department is pursuing repairs and sustainability measures at Rudy Mines. Rogers said the department has an RFP out for trail work, due in April, to address root and water issues common to dirt-bed trails and that it will prioritize high-use areas and rerouting for long-term sustainability. She said crews developed parking off Over Street Road for large events and are pursuing water access via a hydrant. Rogers credited collaboration with Public Works and a state wildlife biologist and noted the site is home to the Indiana bat; she said the state monitors that species at the location.

During questions, Commissioner Glenn asked whether an Indiana bat census had been done. Rogers said state naturalists had confirmed the species and conducted counts but she did not have specific census numbers at the meeting. On food service for events, Rogers said the city brings in local food trucks rather than building permanent concessions.

Rogers also outlined planned changes at Moreland Park. The playground was recently replaced using the city's replacement plan and a Kentucky crumb-rubber tire grant that allowed more accessible surfacing for both the 5–12 and 2–5 play areas. She said the department plans to relocate the park's basketball court to the Hickman and West Parrish corner — a higher-visibility site intended to reduce conflicts with adjacent tennis and youth baseball uses and to apply crime-prevention-through-environmental-design principles.

The relocation would free the old court site for other amenities; Rogers said pickleball courts are under consideration. "We're sticking with no more than two in that location as well," she said. Project specifications are being prepared by Assistant City Engineer Jack Gates, who will serve as project lead, with bids expected in early summer and construction targeted for completion by fall.

Rogers said the department is coordinating with user groups — including tennis, pickleball advocates and the Western Cal Ripken youth baseball group — as plans advance.

Rogers closed by thanking Public Works staff and others who have supported projects at both sites.