Staff Spotlight: Kirk Dolan
What is your role?
I oversee the day to day maintenance of the park. This includes the grounds, buildings, vehicles and other amenities that make The Parklands a special place.
How does your team help keep The Parklands safe?
We coordinate with the Rangers staff to ensure that we have a visual safety presence in the park. We also aid park users that need assistance with directions or may have an accident and require first aid. We are there to provide that everyone has a great experience when they come out to any of our parks.
What are you most proud of in your work?
I am most proud of providing the people in our community a beautiful place that they enjoy and can bring their traveling friends and family to while visiting Louisville.
What inspires you to come to work every day?
My staff inspires me every day. Their dedication to each other and the park is amazing and I honored to be a leader for this great organization.
Which trail would you recommend to visitors and why?
I would recommend our new Leatherwood Trail in Broad Run Park. It is a trail that our staff built from scratch and provides excellent views of the valley below. It is a short hike but hooks up with Limestone Gorge if you want to keep on going.
Which “thing to do” at The Parklands is your favorite and why?
My favorite section of the park is The Strand. To me, it is the most scenic part of the park and is amazing how it flows through the natural landscape. I would recommend that everyone finds their own “hidden gem” in the park. A place that is special to them for whatever reason!
In your opinion, what makes The Parklands worthy of support?
Being a Donor Supported Park means that we are responsible for every dollar that comes in. We do not receive any tax dollars, but we are still able to provide this 4,000-acre amenity to our community. Everyone’s support is necessary to ensure that future generations can enjoy this amazing place.
How would you say “Thank You” to someone who donates to The Parklands, or who is thinking about donating?
I not only say thank you from myself but for family and my staff’s families that work and sacrifice for the park. Without your support, we and the park would not be here 365 days a year from dawn to dusk!