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Bowling Green approves $4.3 million contract to build Riverfront Park Phase 1
Summary
The Bowling Green City Commission awarded the Phase 1 construction contract for Riverfront Park to Scott & Murphy Inc., authorizing roughly $4.3 million for a boat ramp, trails and public seating with construction expected to begin in December and substantial completion targeted for spring–early summer 2026.
The Bowling Green City Commission voted Nov. 18 to accept a bid from Scott & Murphy Inc. and begin Phase 1 construction of Riverfront Park, a multi-year project the city says will include a new boat ramp, rock gardens, small trails, seating areas and other site work between the pedestrian bridge and River Street.
Public Works Director Mosby told commissioners the phase 1 bid is roughly $4.3 million and that the city has funding in place — including a National Park Service grant whose preliminary award dates to February 2020. Mosby said the work will establish the park’s initial footprint and that construction could begin in December, with completion expected by spring or early summer 2026, weather permitting.
Brent Belcher and members of the project team described Phase 1 as the project’s "front porch," set back slightly from the river edge to avoid work that will later be relocated during a planned Whitewater Park phase. The team said Phase 3, which would include a whitewater feature, remains in design and likely will follow in later years.
Commissioners praised the project’s potential economic and recreational benefits. One commissioner asked where renderings could be viewed; staff said they would coordinate with the public information officer to post renderings and supplemental material online. Mosby reiterated that later phases will be bid separately, with Phase 2 expected to go to bid the following spring.
The commission approved the municipal order by roll call.
