Plans for a new tourism attraction at a new Emporia business are taking shape.
Heartland Hounds recently received a $100,000 Kansas Tourism grant and had a check presentation at the business Friday. Initially, the goal is to develop a Heartland Hounds Dockplex — an indoor dock diving and sports complex as part of a $300,000 project. The project is designed to build the only North America Diving Dogs-contracted center in the state. But owner Dr Kasey Flynt sees a bigger reach possible.
Flynt sees this as great for dogs and dog lovers.
Kansas Tourism Director Bridgette Jobe says the Heartland Hounds plan is unique.
Besides bringing regional or national events, including national media coverage, to Emporia, the goal is to bring up to 10 full-time-equivalent jobs to Emporia.
Kansas Tourism awarded $1 million in grants as part of the 2026 Attraction Development Grant Program, including:
*Nearly $82,000 to Dynamic Brewing Company or Champions Landing
*$75,000 to The Star Block project in Osage City
*$40,000 to the Morris County Historic Preservation Corporation
