New playgrounds lead the list of KC Parks upgrades

For immediate release: June 30, 2022

Kansas City Parks and Recreation is announcing $6.3 million in park improvements and upgrades at locations across the City, including $3.2 million for a new aquatics facility at the Southeast Community Center.

The aquatic facility will include a pool, complete with zero-depth entry, spray features, deep area for lap swimming, swim lessons and lifeguard training. Other items planned are new pool equipment, chemical room, multipurpose room, office, first aid room, natatorium, sprinkler room, equipment room, mechanical room and all necessary roof repairs. Community engagement meetings were held to build consensus for these aquatic improvements. The consultant company of Waters Edge Aquatic Design is finalizing the construction documents for a fall 2022 bid opening. Construction is expected to be completed in late 2023.

Playgrounds and park upgrades are also slated for the following locations:

• Budd Park in the Historic Northeast area - walking trail replacement around the perimeter of the park, two 20x20 park shelters in the park, two playgrounds

• Tower Park in the Waldo neighborhood at 75th & Holmes - playground

• Cooley Park along North Antioch Road - master plan - parking lot expansion, new soccer field, trails and playground

• Barry Road Park on North Congress Avenue - replacing playground

• Ashland Square Park at Elmwood Avenue and East 23rd Street - sprayground, construction beginning this summer, new playground will be built and opened around the sprayground - major improvements

The Hillcrest Community Center will receive $250,000 to make repairs to the building and parking lot, and another $220,000 will fund a contract for regular upgrades of exercise equipment at community centers.

"We are thrilled to be making these improvements," said KC Parks Director Christopher Cotten. "Improved amenities will bring renewed energy to the communities who get to enjoy them every day."

Additionally, $1 million will be spent as the local match to design a bridge so that residents living on the north side of Brush Creek can easily walk to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Park. This will be combined with federal funding recently announced by U.S. Rep. Emanuel Cleaver.

"Children in every part of Kansas City deserve to have the very best park facilities, and these projects will improve playgrounds and community centers in every council district citywide," added KC Parks Board President Jack Holland.

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