With a ton of potential projects at several locations across town, the Emporia Recreation Commission is trying to decide how best to make the enhancements — and which projects take priority.
The Rec Commission continued discussions on projects, priorities and payment methods as part of its monthly meeting Monday. Board member Dave Harding tells KVOE News Emporia’s parks and recreation facilities are being used a lot over the past two years.
Board members discussed ideas for Santa Fe and Whittier Parks, as well as the DeBauge Family Sports Complex and the Lee Beran Recreation Center. Parking is a concern at DeBauge, Santa Fe and Whittier, and turf fields may come to DeBauge and Whittier.
For the Rec Center, Harding admits a lot is needed.
The Rec Commission’s current goal is to keep the Rec Center in the same general area near downtown Emporia.
Early projections had total costs near $40 million, so the Rec Commission is looking at both external funding — private donations and grants, among other revenue streams — and potential priority lists. There will be more conversations at the board’s December meeting.
