You'll recall new home construction is booming in Bowling Green, even as it fell ten percent nationally last month. City officials attribute much of that growth to infrastructure improvements the past year.
The city recently embarked on a massive reconstruction and renovation of the city's basic services, from water to sewer improvements.
Storm water drainage vents may not be a flashy sight on the streets of Bowling Green, but city officials say infrastructure improvements like these storm water drains are essential to the future development of the city.
The city is upgrading aging sewer lines as well as releasing $800,000 in bonds to invest in the city's storm water drainage system. But perhaps the biggest infrastructure improvement in Bowling Green will solve a 20 year problem.
You might recall Bowling Green has had issues with water for decades. During drought conditions the reservoir outside of town drops to dangerously low levels leaving the city with a few weeks worth of water.
But now that problem will be a thing of the past. The city is in the middle of a three million dollar project to connect the city's Water Department with the Clarence Cannon Water Commission to add a second source of water for the city.
How can the city do this right now?
City Administrator J.D. Kerhman said, "Nothing clarifies need like a crisis. The drought that plagued Bowling Green for so long had to be dealt with."
Service to residents is being improved thanks to the replacement of old water lines and the addition of a new water tower and ground storage areas. Federal grant dollars are helping pay for the costly water connection. Meanwhile the city is killing two birds with one stone. In the dirt work that accompanied the new water mains along Highway Y, new sidewalks are being installed. The city is well on its way toward its ultimate goal, connecting the city with walkways and trails. As of now pedestrian walkways connect the upper park to the Bowling Green School. When completed sidewalks will connect downtown with the West side of the city.
Bowling Green Mayor David Koester said, "It's important for safety reasons. Children need a safe way to get to school instead of riding their bikes on the highways."
Why is all of this so important?
Kerhman said, "The infrastructure is key to not only quality of life here in Bowling Green but it is key to attracting new development."
Bowling Green can also boast improvements at its city parks. Recently the Department of Conservation built new a boat ramp and bathrooms at the city's lake.
Those aren't the only updates around town these days. The city plans to expand its airport facility and runways with the help of Department of Transportation and F-A-A dollars.
Why is it important to invest in an airport?
Kerhman said, "The airport is just one component of a transportation system and another component of Bowling Green's regional appeal."
Other updates to the city can't be seen except at City Hall. The city council is currently revamping its city codes to get more in line with the state statutes. Officials are also re-tooling the zoning code and updating the city's comprehensive plan.
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