Help Beautify the Bluegrass

Get Recognized for Beautifying the Bluegrass!

From the Appalachian Mountains to the western plains, Kentuckians take pride in caring for our state’s natural beauty and the community landmarks that make each town unique.

That pride shines through this annual initiative, as Kentucky’s electric cooperatives and Kentucky Living, in partnership with the Governor’s office, recognize local efforts that improve public spaces, preserve our state’s natural beauty or help their communities shine.

”From river cleanups to mural paintings, downtown renovations, community gardens and more, we want to honor and celebrate Kentuckians making a difference.” – Governor Andy Beshear

Who’s eligible?

Any effort to make our home state cleaner and more beautiful is welcome. No project is too small!
Completed between July 15, 2025 and July 20, 2026.
Previous finalists include:
- River clean ups
- Downtown revitalization
- Amphitheater renovation
- Community gardens

How does it work?

Submit your own project or nominate someone else at before July 20, 2026.
Finalists will be announced during the Best in Kentucky Awards Show on August 19.
Winner will be announced in the fall at the 2026 Beautify the Bluegrass Governor’s Award ceremony.

2026 Beautify the Bluegrass finalists:

Worthington Memorial Park Revitalization

Lasting improvements were made to Worthington Memorial Park, located in Annville, by Jackson Energy Cooperative, Jackson County community members and businesses, who devoted 400 man-hours to spreading mulch and grass seed, installing a new sidewalk, erecting a new entrance sign, repairing playground equipment, applying fresh paint, installing restroom stall doors, hanging a new handicap-accessible swing and erecting support polls for an overhead shelter. The project’s goal was to refresh a park where families and visitors of all ages can gather, connect and enjoy this cherished recreational space. The volunteer work also improved park accessibility.

Cumberland Falls State Resort Park Spring Cleanup

Almost 300 volunteers picked up litter along Highway 90 during the annual Spring Cleanup at Cumberland Falls State Resort Park, located in Corbin. The volunteers removed 430 bags of trash and 13 tires. Most of the trash was picked up along the highway but volunteers also cleaned below the falls. Several businesses and school boards were involved in helping make the cleanup happen and supporting the volunteer work. South Kentucky RECC and the Walmart Supercenters in Somerset and Monticello supported the event through their 2026 sponsorship of the regional Spring Cleanup campaign, which is organized by The Kentucky Wildlands/Eastern Kentucky PRIDE.

Community Garden Honors Paula Mullins

After the passing of Capital Area Extension Master Gardener Paula Mullins in 2021, members of America in Bloom Lawrenceburg were inspired to honor her with a community garden in Anderson County Park. They worked to create a space of peace and beauty for all to enjoy. People walking through the garden can hear chiming bells, rest on a bench and gaze at the beauty of the seasonal plants. Paula Mullins was a founding member of America in Bloom Lawrenceburg, a local volunteer group that promotes beautification in the community.

Empty Property Becomes Cardinal Park

Cardinal Park was a project born through an unexpected opportunity for the City of Union. The property that would become a park was donated to Union by the Commonwealth of Kentucky after a construction project ended. Once the potential was recognized, the city designed a neighborhood park creating a tranquil green space and welcoming area. The park is located near one of Union’s well-liked walking routes, along Mt. Zion Road, and is a space for people to stop and rest during their walk. Volunteers and area garden clubs help maintain the park, which has become a mark of pride for the community.

Danville Community Mural

A prominent, blank downtown wall has become a celebration of Danville’s history and identity. Located on the Coldwell Banker building, the 800-square-foot mural was created by local artist Kirby Stafford. It’s meant to serve as a public art installation and welcoming landmark for years to come. The mural features iconic symbols of Danville and Boyle County including the Boyle County Courthouse cupola, Constitution Square and the city’s designation as the “Birthplace of Kentucky”. The project, meant to create a memorable sight for residents and visitors, was led by the Danville-Boyle Conty Convention and Visitors Bureau in collaboration with the City of Danville and the Coldwell Banker building’s owner.

Previous winners: