City working with group on Paducah preservation projects

The City of Paducah recently signed a contract with Rhodes Heritage Group to begin developing a plan of recommendations for preserving and stewarding several historic and cultural assets in Paducah. 

They include the Hotel Metropolitan, Stuart Nelson Park and the legacy of Dr. Stuart Nelson, Columbia Theatre, and Oscar Cross’ home.

Recommendations will also be made to preserve the character and community history of Paducah's Southside neighborhoods.

Group founder and president Monica Rhodes met this week with the mayor and commissioners, the City Manager’s office, Planning and Parks & Recreation department directors, and the Convention & Visitors Bureau. 

Paducah Mayor George Bray said the city wants to be proactive in creating a preservation plan. 

“Paducah’s history is incorporated in these buildings and locations," said Mayor Bray. "Protecting key historical and cultural resources is a Paducah Board of Commissioners’ priority.”

Over the next few months, Rhodes Heritage Group will complete a final report that will include recommendations for the four preservation projects, the Southside, and additional sites significant to Paducah's Black history.