Nicholasville parks director outlines growth, accessibility goals

Published 12:55 pm Monday, July 28, 2025

As Nicholasville continues to rank among Kentucky’s fastest-growing cities, local officials are working to ensure its park system evolves alongside it. Parks and Recreation Director Anessa Snowden says that vision includes expanded amenities, increased accessibility, and deeper community engagement.

“We want our parks to reflect the pride people feel about this community,” Snowden said. “If something’s not right, we want residents to speak up. We’re here to listen.”

Sub-header: A background rooted in service

Snowden brings nearly 20 years of experience to the role, including leadership positions in Lexington and Las Vegas, and a professional background in both special education and therapeutic recreation. She says her approach is shaped by a belief that parks are essential to personal and community well-being—not just physically, but mentally and socially as well.

“Parks meet people where they are,” she said. “For some, it’s a quiet walk. For others, it’s an event with neighbors or a night game under the lights. All of it matters.”

Accessibility beyond compliance

Ensuring that parks are welcoming and usable for all residents is a core focus for the department. Snowden emphasized that accessibility isn’t just about meeting ADA standards—it’s about proximity, inclusion, and adaptability.

“We’re looking at the whole picture,” she said. “Where parks are located, how people access them, and how we can accommodate different needs.”

Planning for growth

With Nicholasville’s population rising, Parks and Recreation is working to improve existing facilities and add new features. That includes updating aging playgrounds and preparing to open a 59,000-square-foot community recreation center off the bypass. The facility will include multi-use indoor spaces aimed at serving residents of all ages.

“We joke that we might outgrow it on day one,” Snowden said. “But that’s a good problem to have.”

Summer programs and recent additions

The department’s seasonal offerings include:

• New lit pickleball courts at City-County Park
  • Youth and adult leagues for basketball, softball, and volleyball
  • The return of the Aquatic Center, open from Memorial Day to Labor Day
  • The Lake Mingo splash pad, free to the public and open through fall break
  • Summer concerts at Rock Fence and Riney B parks
  Snowden noted that parks play a key role in connecting new residents with their community. Tools like the department’s Facebook page, njcpr.org, and the RECDesk platform make it easy to stay updated, register for programs, and reserve facilities.

A long-term vision

Looking ahead, Snowden and her team are exploring plans for additional green space, trails, biking areas, passive recreation zones, and nature-themed features like butterfly gardens and picnic areas.

“Our mission is simple,” she said. “We want to offer high-quality parks and programs that support health, happiness, and community for everyone in Nicholasville and Jessamine County.”