Approximately $1.1 million in improvements is coming to Big Bone Lick State Historic Site as part of the state’s “Restoring the Finest” initiative, tourism officials announced today.
Officials announced $1.1 Million in funding Thursday at Big Bone Lick State Historic Site. Pictured (left to right): Secretary Don Parkinson, Kentucky Tourism, Arts, and Heritage Cabinet; Commissioner Donnie Holland, Kentucky State Parks; Park Manager Greta Gay, Big Bone Lick State Historic Site; State Senator John Schickel, R-Union; Ron Vanover, Director of Recreational Parks & Historical Sites; Deputy Commissioner John Kington, Kentucky State Parks (provided photo).
The initiative is an effort to make repairs and safety improvements to the Kentucky State Park system.
“Our state parks were facing $240 million in deferred maintenance at the beginning of this administration,” Parks Commissioner Donnie Holland said. “This funding allows us to make much-needed repairs and improvements for the parks and continue contributing to the tourism economy across Kentucky.”
The funding for Big Bone Lick State Historic Site includes upgrades to the park’s wastewater treatment plant and improved access to the bison viewing area.
“Big Bone Lick State Historic Site is a great asset to this community,” said State Senator John Schickel (R-Union). “We appreciate Governor Bevin, Secretary Parkinson, and all those in the administration who work with us in the General Assembly to make these projects a reality.”
With today’s announcement, Big Bone Lick State Historic Site will have received $1.2 million in improvements since 2016 under the Bevin administration.
“We are happy to announce this necessary investment at Big Bone Lick State Historic Site,” said Tourism, Arts and Heritage Secretary Don Parkinson. “Our Restoring the Finest projects are critical to keeping our state parks safe and attractive to guests. We appreciate the continued support of our parks from Governor Bevin and members of the General Assembly.”
Kentucky State Parks received $18 million and $20 million in added funding as part of the “Refreshing the Finest” program in 2016-2018. Gov. Bevin and lawmakers approved a $50 million bond issue for the “Restoring the Finest” campaign in state parks during the 2019 General Assembly.
“This investment to improve the infrastructure at Big Bone Lick Park is desperately needed,” said Boone County Judge-Executive Gary Moore. “These upgrades will improve the health and safety of park visitors while at the same time protect the environment. We appreciate Governor Bevin and his administration continued investments in our community.”
Big Bone Lick State Historic Site in Boone County is recognized as the birthplace of American vertebrate paleontology. The park has a museum, campground, bison herd, pool, hiking trails and recreational programs.
Kentucky Tourism Arts and Heritage Cabinet
