By MICHAEL CRIMMINS
Glasgow News 1
A proposed Kentucky spending bill includes millions of dollars for a Glasgow regional sports complex.
House Bill 900, which uses money from Kentucky’s Budget Reserve Trust Fund Account, contains a section that would provide $10 million for the construction of a sports complex in Glasgow during the 2026-27 fiscal year. The proposal is part of a one-time projects package that lawmakers have sent to the governor’s desk for consideration.
Barren County State Representative Steve Riley praised the project, calling it a potential “economic engine” for Glasgow, Barren County and the surrounding region due to the event-hosting capabilities for things such as AAU basketball tournaments and volleyball tournament. Riley was in Cave City on Friday, April 3, for a visit by U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell.
“People are going to eat at Glasgow restaurants, stay at Glasgow hotels and buy gas in our area,” Riley said. “We’re very excited about that and what we’re going to be able to do.”
Riley compared its potential impact to that of the agriculture exposition center, for which $20 million was earmarked in the federal budget. McConnell was at the Cave Area Conference Center to talk about that project.
Barren County Judge-Executive Jamie Bewley Byrd echoed Riley’s sentiments that the sports complex would increase area tourism, saying that even though it is not official yet she is “very excited.” She added that the design is nearing completion and that the $10 million will allow them to begin phase one. The design was done by Sherman Carter Barnhart Architects using $1 million of state money, according to prior reporting.
As previously reported by Glasgow News 1, the city agreed to locate the regional complex on 15 acres of the former Johnson property. In 2025, Byrd said the layout included four basketball courts, three pickleball/tennis courts, multipurpose areas and a soccer/football field.
The $10 million in House Bill 900 would not become available unless the governor approves the measure. The bill’s inclusion of the Glasgow sports complex funding is one of several one-time projects listed in the legislation.
Key Facts
– House Bill 900 includes $10 million for a regional sports complex in Glasgow
– Money would come from Kentucky’s Budget Reserve Trust Fund Account as a one-time project
– The complex would be inside Glasgow city limits and serve surrounding counties
– Supporters envision indoor courts for basketball, volleyball, pickleball and tennis
– Backers say youth tournaments could bring visitors and tourism dollars to the area
– The bill has been sent to the governor and awaits action
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