Countdown nearing an end for opening of Smothers Park - 14 News, WFIE, Evansville, Henderson, Owensboro

Countdown nearing an end for opening of Smothers Park

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Friday night at 5:30, there will be a playground and spray park grand opening celebration followed by the launching of the signature fountain. Friday night at 5:30, there will be a playground and spray park grand opening celebration followed by the launching of the signature fountain.
OWENSBORO, KY (WFIE) -

In less than three hours, Owensboro city leaders will hold a grand opening celebration for their multi-million dollar riverfront project.

It was four years ago when the city knew it had to do something about it's riverfront, and after a $40 million Federal Grant, their dream became a reality.  and Friday, the city is set to open Smothers Park for the very first time.

Mayor Ron Payne says this project has created hundreds of new jobs and economic growth already. A trend that is sure to continue.

We spoke with the mayor, as he walked us through the project Thursday, about reaching this major milestone.

"This has planted a seed that is going to continue to grow," Mayor Payne said. "Putting that convention center down there. Putting those hotels. This is going to draw so many people downtown because, if you can get the kids downtown, you can get the parents."

Friday night at 5:30, there will be a playground and spray park grand opening celebration followed by the launching of the signature fountain, which, by the way, was designed by the same people who did the Bellagio Hotel fountains in Las Vegas.

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