By Blake Jackson
Kenton County has officially completed two key improvement projects at the Historic Kenton County Courthouse campus in Independence, Kentucky.
These efforts include the construction of a new farmers market pavilion and the final phase of courthouse renovations—advancing both community access and historical preservation.
The new open-air farmers market pavilion, built in partnership with the Kentucky Agricultural Development Board and the Durr Foundation, features a 25-by-50-foot covered structure with a decorative cupola to match the courthouse architecture.
Amenities include public restrooms, parking, and storage space, making it a welcoming site for community events.
“Creating a permanent home for the Independence Farmers Market allows us to support our local farmers and helps bring our courthouse campus to life on the weekends,” said Kenton County Judge/Executive Kris Knochelmann.
The Independence Farmers Market reopened at its new home on May 3 and will operate every Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. through October. When not in use, the pavilion will be available for public rentals via Kenton County Parks & Recreation.
Just a short distance away, the county completed the fourth and final phase of renovations to the Historic Courthouse. These upgrades included a women’s restroom, updated men’s restroom and lobby, and modernized offices for the Sheriff and Property Valuation Administrator.
“These updates ensure the courthouse continues to meet the needs of our residents while preserving a key piece of Kenton County’s history,” said Knochelmann.
The courthouse improvements are part of a larger effort that began in 2018, addressing structural concerns and enhancing accessibility with new sidewalks and parking. This final phase marks a significant milestone in transforming the courthouse into a more functional and inviting space.
Together, these projects reflect Kenton County’s dedication to community enhancement, historical preservation, and local economic support. The courthouse campus now stands as both a landmark and a hub for civic and cultural activities.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-stockseller_ukr
Categories: Kentucky, Business