Construction is set to begin in the coming weeks on a $2.7 million improvement project for Jefferson Memorial Forest’s Tom Wallace Recreation Area.
Named after local preservationist and former editor of the now-defunct Louisville Times newspaper, the ~27-acre recreation area is the oldest and one of the most popular sections of the forest, thanks to its many hiking trails, picnic areas, natural playground, and lake access.
The area hasn’t seen any major enhancements since the mid-1980s and the Tom Wallace Improvement Project aims to improve access and encourage more exploration. Here’s what’s to come:
- A paved path around Tom Wallace Lake
- New picnic shelters
- Boardwalk over a wetland area
- Paving of the existing gravel parking lot
- Designated fishing locations + a kayak launch
Once construction begins, some areas of the park will be closed temporarily. Follow Jefferson Memorial Forest for updates.