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- calendar_today November 3, 2026
Groundbreaking for New Guilfoil Recreation Center
The Boys and Girls Club of Glasgow-Barren County has officially broken ground on the new Guilfoil Recreation Center, with a ceremony held on Monday, November 2. The new facility at 801 Columbia Avenue in Glasgow, Kentucky, is poised to significantly expand the club’s programming and increase capacity for children in Barren County.
Significant Gift Leads to Expanded Opportunities
Construction of the new recreation center was made possible by a gift from the Craft family. The center will be named in honor of Kelly Craft’s parents, acknowledging the Guilfoil family’s long association with the Glasgow community.
Beyond a Standard Gym: Multifunctional Spaces
The current club operates with a makeshift outdoor gym, supporting activities like basketball, volleyball, and archery. The upcoming recreation center will introduce a much-needed indoor gymnasium, providing year-round space for these sports activities. Additionally, the new gymnasium will feature a stage to support performing arts, such as singing, dancing, and acting, which are key components of the club’s Triple Threat Club. This addition is expected to help grow the club’s performing arts programs.
The facility’s design also accommodates community sports leagues, concessions, and showers. Outdoors, the addition of approximately 2.5 acres of green space will expand the playground and garden, offering children opportunities to learn about gardening and food cultivation.
Increasing Access for Local Children
Space limitations have historically restricted access to the club. Currently, the Boys and Girls Club serves about 180 children daily, compared to around 100 fifteen years ago. Despite growth, demand has often resulted in a waiting list equal to or greater than the number of children in attendance.
With the expansion, CEO Mallie Boston anticipates the club will be able to welcome an additional 60 to 100 children. The club serves local youth ages 5 to 18 through after-school and summer programs, focusing on education, job skills, healthy living, and substance abuse prevention.
Construction Timeline and Community Impact
Branscum Construction is managing the building project. Provided that weather and scheduling remain favorable, the club aims to open the new Guilfoil Recreation Center by August or September 2027.
According to Mallie Boston, the primary advantage of the new center will be providing more space and opportunities for local children to participate in the club’s activities.
Looking Forward
The groundbreaking marks a significant step forward for the Boys and Girls Club of Glasgow-Barren County’s mission to support and enhance the lives of young people in the community. With expanded facilities and new resources, the club is poised to serve more children and further develop its diverse range of programs.
Source: wnky.com.
