Over Fifty Citizen Academy Returns March 5–11, 2026
- Published:
- March 3, 2026
- Category:
- General
- Contact:
- Emily Brawner, Community Engagement Coordinator - 270-393-3641
- Location:
- Bowling Green, KY
The City’s Over Fifty Citizen Academy will return March 5–11, 2026, continuing a meaningful community engagement tradition that gives residents a behind-the-scenes look at how local government operates.
Bowling Green, KY – The City’s Over Fifty Citizen Academy will return March 5–11, 2026, continuing a meaningful community engagement tradition that gives residents a behind-the-scenes look at how local government operates.
Designed specifically for residents age 50 and older, the week-long program provides participants with an inside look at how services are delivered throughout Bowling Green. Through presentations, facility tours, and open conversations, participants gain direct access to City leadership, department directors, and staff.
The 2026 class includes 34 participants, all first-time attendees. Interest in the program remains strong, with 75 residents applying for this year’s Academy.
The first four days of the program will begin and end at Neighborhood and Community Services, located at 707 East Main Avenue, with additional site visits and tours scheduled throughout the week. Graduation will take place on Wednesday, March 11.
The Over Fifty Citizen Academy is designed to increase civic understanding, encourage engagement, and cultivate informed ambassadors for the City. Throughout the week, participants will learn about:
- City government structure and budgeting
- Public safety operations
- Public Works services
- Planning and zoning
- Stormwater management
- Parks and Recreation programs
- Transit services
- Community partnerships
Program highlights include a City government overview and budget presentation, a tour of Public Works Operations, Police and Fire presentations and facility tours, a Parks and Recreation presentation, a ride on GO BG Transit, and stormwater and environmental education sessions. Participants will also hear from community partners, including Hotel Inc.
The week concludes with a graduation ceremony recognizing participants for their commitment to civic engagement and community leadership.
The Over Fifty Citizen Academy continues to strengthen connections between residents and City staff, fostering greater understanding of the services and people who work each day to serve the community.
The Academy is organized by the Community Engagement Division for Neighbors and New Americans within the Department of Neighborhood and Community Services. For more information about future Citizen Academy opportunities, residents are encouraged to contact our Citizen Information and Assistance phone line at 270-393-3444.
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