STAFF REPORT
Glasgow News 1
Nominations are now open for the 2026 Beautify the Bluegrass contest, giving Kentuckians a chance to spotlight local projects that improve and brighten public spaces.
“As community organizations and civic-minded individuals take on beautification projects, including many around Earth Day in April, we encourage them to take ‘before and after’ photos of their efforts,” said Shannon Brock, editor of Kentucky Living magazine, which is partnering with the governor for this contest. “These projects are not done to get public recognition, but by spotlighting these efforts, we hope to encourage and inspire others to do the same.”
Over the last decade, Beautify the Bluegrass has honored a wide range of efforts, from river cleanups and trail improvements to public art installations and revitalized gathering spots. In 2025, the county was recognized by Beautify the Bluegrass for its Christmastime transformation of the downtown square, a display that Kentucky Electric Cooperatives Joe Arnold praised as one that “exemplifies the dedication and commitment of individuals and groups who go above and beyond to enhance the commonwealth.”
Projects completed between July 15, 2025, and July 20, 2026, are eligible for nomination. Individuals, organizations or local groups can enter their own projects or nominate other deserving efforts. Nominations can be submitted to KentuckyLiving.com.
Finalists for the 2026 contest are scheduled to be announced Aug. 20 during Kentucky Living’s Best in Kentucky Awards. After that, a public vote will determine which project receives the Governor’s Award later in the fall.
Key Facts
• Nominations are open for the 2026 Beautify the Bluegrass contest
• Contest highlights Kentucky projects that improve public spaces
• Projects completed between July 15, 2025, and July 20, 2026, are eligible
• Individuals, organizations and local groups can nominate projects
• Finalists announced August 20 during Kentucky Living’s Best in Kentucky Awards
• Public vote on KentuckyLiving.com will help select the winner
• Winning project will receive the Governor’s Award later this fall
• Past honorees include projects like river cleanups, trail improvements and public art
• Barren County was honored in 2025 for its Christmastime transformation of the downtown square
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