Bowling Green, KY, August 27, 2025
News Summary
Bowling Green has initiated a Request For Proposal (RFP) for renovations at the Russell Sims Aquatic Center, part of a comprehensive master plan for community facilities. Enhancements aim to improve accessibility and attract more visitors. The Glasgow Aquatic Center is also set for completion by late August, despite delays. Community feedback has been positive as safety education for children becomes a priority with the summer season approaching.
Bowling Green has announced the launch of a Request For Proposal (RFP) for renovations aimed at revitalizing the Russell Sims Aquatic Center. This initiative is part of a broader 10-year master plan designed by the city’s parks and recreation department to enhance community facilities and ensure their sustainability over the next 25 years.
Part of the enhancements includes soliciting community input in the near future, a strategy led by Cameron Levis, the manager of the Bowling Green Parks and Recreation (BGPR) recreation division. The center’s renovations are seen as a crucial step towards improving accessibility and attraction for water activities in Bowling Green.
Meanwhile, the new Glasgow Aquatic Center is aiming for completion by late August or early September, albeit with delays attributed to adverse weather conditions and supply chain issues. In anticipation of its opening, the Glasgow Parks Department plans to hold an open house this fall, where residents will have the opportunity to purchase preseason passes at discounted rates.
Despite the delays in construction, feedback from the community regarding the Glasgow Aquatic Center has been overwhelmingly positive, as reported by the Glasgow Parks Director, Eddie Furlong. This underscores the community’s eagerness for enhanced aquatic facilities in the region.
In another development, the Russell Sims Aquatic Center is set to reopen this weekend with notable improvements. The facility now boasts a replaced bridge and upgraded slides, positioning it well to accommodate thousands of visitors this summer. Levis expressed enthusiasm for the return of visitors and acknowledged the hard work that has gone into preparing the center for the community’s use.
Safety remains a paramount concern as the summer season approaches. Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) highlights that children aged 1 to 4 are at a heightened risk of drowning, emphasizing the need for effective swimming education. Swim instructor Doris Miller stresses the critical importance of teaching children to swim by age three, and notes that adults must also learn how to swim to act as role models.
Visibility is a safety point of concern as well; bright-colored swimsuits are recommended for children swimming in rivers or lakes to enhance their visibility. Furthermore, ensuring children’s comfort in the water is essential, as discomfort can lead to increased drowning risks.
Elizabeth Coleman, the assistant manager of the center, reinforced the necessity of swimming lessons for individuals of all ages, indicating that safety around water, particularly large bodies, is essential for community well-being. Lessons provide peace of mind and empower the youth, promoting a safer environment for everyone.
Summary of Developments
- Bowling Green issues RFP for Russell Sims Aquatic Center renovations.
- Enhancements are part of a 10-year master plan for the parks department.
- Glasgow Aquatic Center set to complete construction by late August or early September.
- Community feedback remains positive concerning new facilities.
- Russell Sims Aquatic Center reopens with upgrades for summer visitors.
- Emphasis on child swimming safety and education, addressing drowning risks.
FAQ Section
What is the Russell Sims Aquatic Center renovation about?
The renovations aim to enhance the existing facilities as part of a long-term plan for community parks and recreation integration.
When will the Glasgow Aquatic Center open?
The Glasgow Aquatic Center is expected to open by late August to early September, following construction delays.
What safety measures are being discussed for children?
There is a strong emphasis on swimming education for children, particularly teaching them to swim by the age of three to prevent drowning risks.
Why is community feedback important for these projects?
Community input is vital to ensure the facilities meet the needs and preferences of residents, promoting better usage and satisfaction.
Key Features Chart
| Feature | Russell Sims Aquatic Center | Glasgow Aquatic Center |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Renovations for long-term sustainability | New facility for enhanced aquatic activities |
| Completion Timeline | Ongoing renovations; reopening this weekend | Projected completion by late August/early September |
| Community Engagement | Input to be solicited for enhancements | Positive feedback despite delays |
| Safety Focus | Emphasis on children’s swimming education | Preseason passes and lessons for water safety |
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Additional Resources
- WNKY: Bowling Green Looks to Improve Russell Sims Aquatic Center
- Wikipedia: Aquatic Center
- WBKO: New Glasgow Aquatic Center Set to Finish Construction
- Google Search: Glasgow Aquatic Center
- WNKY: Russell Sims Aquatic Center Opening Up This Weekend
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Aquatics
- KMMO: Sedalia Plans for New Bowling Alley Aquatic Center
- Google News: Bowling Green Pool 2025
- WBKO: Swim Instructors Raise Awareness on Water Safety
- Google Scholar: Swimming Education
Author: STAFF HERE BOWLING GREEN WRITER
The BOWLING GREEN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBowlingGreen.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Bowling Green, Warren County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the National Corvette Homecoming, International Festival, concerts at SKyPAC, and sports events at Beech Bend Park. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce and the African American Museum Bowling Green Area, plus leading businesses in automotive, apparel, and healthcare that power the local economy such as General Motors Corvette Assembly Plant, Fruit of the Loom, and Med Center Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERELexingtonKY.com and HERELouisville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Kentucky's dynamic landscape.
