Louisville Seeks Feedback on Planned Shawnee Park Learning Center

Mayor Greenberg invites community input on new outdoor education hub

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg is asking residents to provide feedback on the development of a new outdoor learning center planned for Shawnee Park. The Shawnee Outdoor Learning Center will offer community activities, programs and events, and is part of the city's West Louisville Outdoor Recreation Initiative to increase equitable access to nature for local families.

Why it matters

The new learning center is an effort to improve community spaces and educational opportunities in the Shawnee neighborhood, which is part of West Louisville and has historically faced socioeconomic challenges. By soliciting resident feedback, the city aims to ensure the center reflects the needs and vision of the local community.

The details

The city has secured $10 million in funding for the project, with $7 million coming from the state and $3 million from the city. Officials are now seeking community input through a survey that will run through April 3, focusing on preferences for programming and how residents currently use the park.

  • The survey will be open from now through April 3, 2026.

The players

Craig Greenberg

The mayor of Louisville, Kentucky.

West Louisville Outdoor Recreation Initiative

Louisville Parks and Recreation's initiative to increase equitable access to nature for Louisville children and families.

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What they’re saying

“Every neighborhood should have access to a park with great community spaces for children and families. This is an opportunity for residents to help shape the Shawnee Outdoor Learning Center so we can build a space that reflects the vision and creativity of the Shawnee community.”

— Craig Greenberg, Mayor of Louisville (wave3.com)

What’s next

The city will review the survey results and use the feedback to finalize the plans for the Shawnee Outdoor Learning Center.

The takeaway

The planned Shawnee Park learning center is an example of how cities can work to improve access to nature and educational resources in underserved communities, with a focus on incorporating resident input to ensure the space meets local needs.