The City of Owensboro Parks & Recreation Department has unveiled a proposal to repurpose the tennis courts at Dugan Best Park, aiming to create a multi-functional recreational space based on community feedback and staff recommendations. If approved, the redesigned area will offer basketball, futsal, and other unique options for outdoor play.
The enhancements are part of the City’s broader initiative to address public recreation trends and improve accessibility to diverse activities.
The proposal shows that one tennis court would be converted into half of a youth basketball court with a nine-foot rim, with the goal to be located on the sideline at the center of the court rather than at the end. That court would also double as a street soccer and futsal court.
The proposal shows the other court would be removed and turned into a space with several activities, including a GaGa Ball pit, an obstacle course, a general play space with hopscotch and four square, and a small patch of open asphalt for unstructured play.
The plan, presented Tuesday during the City Commission meeting by Parks & Recreation Director Amanda Rogers, is the result of extensive input from local residents, participants at the Dugan Best Recreation Center, and the Dugan Best Neighborhood Alliance. It also incorporates findings from the Parks Master Plan, which identified community desires for expanded programming and updated amenities.
“This process has been about maximizing the use of this space for as many people as possible,” Rogers said. “We’ve taken a close look at how the area is currently being used, hosted public meetings, and gathered input to ensure the upgrades align with community needs.”
The project footprint was developed in collaboration with design firm Lose and Associates to ensure efficient use of space. Work on the upgrades is expected to coincide with the City’s spring asphalt maintenance schedule, following the completion of bid submissions and approval.
Rogers emphasized that the upgrades reflect growing community interest in activities such as soccer and futsal, which attract a wide range of participants.
“We’ve seen tremendous growth in soccer in our community, and this project gives us an opportunity to support that while also providing something for younger children and families,” she said.
During the public feedback process, some residents advocated for retaining tennis courts or adding pickleball courts. However, the department determined that the proposed changes would serve a larger portion of the community, Rogers said.
Rogers noted that plans for pickleball courts are already underway at Moreland Park, where two courts will be added as part of a separate project.
“This plan reflects a thoughtful approach to enhancing our parks while addressing the needs and interests of as many residents as possible,” Rogers said. “We’re excited about what these upgrades will bring to Dugan Best Park and the surrounding community.”
The proposal now awaits approval, with implementation slated to begin once bids are secured and the spring maintenance schedule begins.
