Beautify the Bluegrass honors exceptional projects that improve public spaces in Kentucky, uplifting communities and showcasing local pride. Efforts include park cleanups, public art installations and revitalized communal spaces. Launched in 2017, the initiative invites Kentuckians to choose the winner of the Governor’s Award.
“Thanks to Kentucky Living and Kentucky’s electric cooperatives for supporting community projects across the commonwealth,” Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear said. “Congratulations to all the finalists and thank you to all the volunteers who work to improve our communities.”
Chosen from a standout field of dozens of nominations, this year’s Beautify the Bluegrass finalists demonstrate the community spirit driving lasting improvements across the commonwealth.
Irvin Schoolhouse Renovation
Hammond Sisters, Russell County
Once abandoned and overgrown, the 100-year-old one-room Irvin Schoolhouse was transformed over four years by the Hammond family. The diligent renovations included a full restoration maintaining the integrity of the original space, accessibility upgrades, exterior decoration and landscaping. The historic property now serves as an intimate event venue for gatherings of all kinds.
Logsdon Valley Park Trail Renovations
Grayson County Tourism, Grayson County
In the wake of flood damage, Grayson County Tourism upgraded Logsdon Valley Park by improving trail access, replacing its damaged bridge, introducing an event stage and play area and resurfacing the town’s only outdoor basketball court. Located in the heart of Leitchfield, which was recently certified as Kentucky’s 30th official trail town, Logsdon Valley Park serves as an outdoor destination for all residents and visitors.
Loretto Clocktower Plaza Project
Beautify Loretto, Inc., Marion County
Over the last year, Beautify Loretto, Inc. has dedicated itself to consistently enhance Loretto’s clocktower plaza through expanded landscaping, the addition of new flags and ongoing community-focused events. Previously a vacant lot, the site now serves as both a central gathering space and a veteran memorial in the heart of downtown.
Operation Community Cleanup
Issac Sterett Adventure Foundation, Daviess County
For the third year in a row, Operation Community Cleanup, hosted by the Issac Sterett Adventure Foundation, organized volunteers in Owensboro to clean up trash throughout their neighborhoods in celebration of Earth Day. Over 32 teams and 772 participants competed to gather the most garbage, filling more than 450 bags of trash in one day.
The Boo Singleton Project
Pendleton County Tourism Office and others, Pendleton County
The Boo Singleton project was established in memory of Robert “Boo” Singleton, a devoted local conservationist and beloved neighbor known for his commitment to keeping his community litter-free. Boo passed in April. In his honor, Pendleton County Tourism and several other organizations initiated The Boo Singleton Project, a community-wide Licking River sweep and roadside cleanup. More than 100 volunteers removed 2,500 pounds of trash, 1,000 pounds of scrap metal and 40 tires from local tributaries, riverbanks and roadways.
Readers can visit KentuckyLiving.com/beautify now through August 29 to learn more about this year’s projects, vote for their favorite finalist and see the impact of community pride in action.
