Record Staff Report
A former asphalt parking lot at the corner of South Second and West Kentucky streets is now a 2.2-acre lawn.
Spalding University dedicated the new green space called Trager Park during a ceremony Nov. 3.
Trager Park will offer students and neighbors space for intramural sports and recreation “while beautifying the South of Broadway (SoBro) neighborhood and providing a signature entrance for the southeast corner of Spalding’s campus,” a news release from the university said. The park will also help alleviate the urban heat island-effect in the area.
“Through partnerships with community stewards like LG&E and the Trager Family Foundation, Spalding is able to expand its campus and opportunities for students while improving the quality of life of our neighbors and helping the environment,” said Dr. Tori Murden McClure, Spalding’s president.
Construction began in early summer and included the removal of about 150 parking spaces. Approximately 100 trees will be planted at Trager Park next spring, the release said.
The park is named in honor of Bernard Trager, the founder of Republic Bank, and his wife, Jean.
Trager Park is the latest piece in Spalding’s ongoing “greening initiative.” In 2013, the university dedicated Mother Catherine Square on West Breckenridge Street. Spalding also plans to construct an athletic complex, which will be the home of its softball and soccer teams.
