Parklands Reach A Million Visits for 2016

Halfway through the year, The Parklands of Floyds Fork has exceeded one million visits, putting the donor-supported, public park well on its way to surpassing the 1.8 million visitors initially expected by the end of 2016. This is a major milestone for the ambitious project, which opened its first amenity only five years ago.

“With all four parks now open and additional amenities under construction, 2016 is set to be a landmark year for The Parklands,” said Park Director Scott Martin. “Every day, more people are discovering The Parklands and all it offers the Metro Louisville region.”

Since opening Marshall Playground & Sprayground in 2011, The Parklands has seen tremendous growth in size and interest. In May alone, The Parklands received nearly 300,000 visits—almost double the number from May of 2015. This increasing visitation of the park is due in no small part to the recent opening of Broad Run Park on April 15 of this year and Turkey Run Park in October of 2015.

In order to keep up with the parks’ rapidly growing popularity, The Parklands expanded its team to help operate the nearly 4,000-acre park system. Since opening Turkey Run Park last fall, 21^st Century Parks has hired 26 part-time staff and 5 full-time staff to support the expanding system.

Each member of staff is committed to providing a world-class experience to visitors, and with the spike in visitation, The Parklands is asking visitors to do their part.

“We are thrilled to see so many people enjoying the parks and developing a love for the outdoors,” Martin said. “With this increased visitation, we ask park guests to remain courteous and respectful to those around them, and to take precautions to ensure safe and fun experiences on our trails, waterways, playgrounds and other areas.”  

Tips to Enjoy Your Visit:

• Wear long, light colored pants and drink plenty of water.
• When out on a trail or Floyds Fork, let someone know where you are going and when you will return.
• Be aware of your surroundings. Note the name of the park and/or trail that you are enjoying.
• When out on trails, pass on the left, and let other trail users know you are passing with verbal cues.
• Pay attention to the permitted trail use. Bicycles should use only designated biking trails.
• Make sure your speed on the trails allows you to be in control at all times.
• If you are going to fish, have a valid Kentucky Fishing License and practice catch and release to help maintain this quality fishery.
• Do not take unnecessary valuables with you on your outing, and never leave any valuables unattended in the park or in your car.
• Do not litter, and take in what you take out.
• When paddling on the Fork use appropriate safety gear, know your paddling ability and go with people that are familiar with the section you are paddling.
• Water levels on the Fork change rapidly as it is a natural, free-flowing stream. Be prepared and aware of changing water and weather conditions.

Following these tips will help keep visitors safe and also keep The Parklands safe, clean, fun and beautiful for years to come! For more information on park rules and tips to make the most of your experience, visit www.theparklands.org/safety.