New master plan coming for Jefferson Memorial Forest in southwest Louisville

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- Mayor Craig Greenberg and officials from Louisville's parks department are asking residents to weigh in on how to improve Jefferson Memorial Forest as the city updates its long-term plan for the nearly 7,000-acre park.

The city's Parks and Recreation Department launched a public survey as it works on a new master plan for the forest, which was last updated in 2009. Officials said the goal is to make the forest more of a regional destination while keeping its natural character.

"We do still have a lot of the same priorities as far as welcome center space, education facilities, things like that — and trail development," Jessica Kane, a spokesperson for Louisville Parks and Recreation, said Tuesday.

CLICK HERE to complete the survey.

"Jefferson Memorial Forest is a natural gem, not just for Louisville, but for the entire region, and this master plan is our chance to listen and learn from the people who care about it most," Greenberg said in the statement last month.

The master plan covers three phases: Discovery, Framework and Trailhead.

The project is now in the Discovery phase, which involves connecting with the Louisville community and gathering input through public events, surveys and listening sessions, according to a news release.

Visitors who frequent the park said they'd like to see improvements ranging from new trails to better restrooms. Ryan Sutherland, who runs in the forest several times a week, said more options would make the park even better.

"There's a lot of trails here, but you just get tired of doing the same ones," Sutherland said. "Bathrooms would definitely be an improvement, too."

Other users suggested adding more rinse stations near the lake and continuing to improve accessibility. Sandy Futch, who often walks her dog in the park, said she appreciates how much of the forest is already ADA compliant.

"I have a neighbor whose daughter has a handicap, and she has been out here on these trails, and they do really well," Futch said.

Some of the park's infrastructure also needs attention. Mitchell Hill Road, one of the main routes through the forest, partially collapsed during winter storms earlier this year.

More than 250,000 people visit Jefferson Memorial Forest each year, according to the city. Residents can complete the online survey on the Parks and Recreation website to share their input.

To learn more about Jefferson Memorial Forest, click here.