HOPKINSVILLE, KY (CHRISTIAN COUNTY NOW) – Fred Atkins Park in downtown Hopkinsville has the potential to be a cozy spot to take a break during the day, but it remains closed indefinitely due to public health and safety concerns.
Located on Main Street next to Coffee Connection, the park was supposed to serve as a downtown oasis. Lately, the gates have been closed with a large chain locking it shut.
“The city recently made the decision to close it off as a matter of public health and safety,” said Chris Jung, spokesman for the city of Hopkinsville. “While the area has since been cleaned up, there was concern about trash and debris that had been collecting within that space.”
According to Hopkinsville Parks and Recreation, the park was established after the demolition of an existing building. The empty space was then turned into a pocket park and was renovated in October 2014. It was dedicated, and named after a beloved City Council member, Fred Atkins, who served seven terms.
Jung wants to reassure the community that the city is working to ensure the safety of the area before reopening. However, the space can still be rented out for free for special events or gatherings through Parks and Recreation.