Construction should begin on the Phase 2 of the Greenway Trail along Clear Creek off North Seventh Street – thanks to those who participated in bicycle ride fund-raisers June 3 and an anonymous gift of $40,000.
Parks Consultant Clay Cottongim was overwhelmed when an individual approached him as a result of the Parks Poker Pedal and Parks Pedal Party events earlier this month. “The person was willing to give the money as long as it remained anonymous… and in the spirit that it would be a challenge to others to meet that amount so the Phase 2 plans could move forward,” he said.
The Shelby County Parks Foundation received a $100,000 matching state grant. This anonymous gift and the $5,000 raised by the cyclists leaves about $11,000 that still needs to be collected. Cottongim said individual donations have been received ranging from $50 to $1,000 – along with an anonymous $10,000 and $5,000. Cottongim explained that a tract of land valued at about $65,000 was donated by Citizens Union Bank as well.
“We are thrilled to see the positive response from the public. It shows Phase 1 was a welcomed addition to the parks system and that citizens want more,” Cottongim said, explaining that tax-deductible donations can be mailed to Parks Foundation, 715 Burks Branch Road, Shelbyville KY 40065.
Shelby County Parks Foundation 