Gillham Park Spraypark Design

Thanks to everyone who attended the recent meeting about the spraypark design. Based upon questions at the meeting, we wanted to send out some background information.  First, funding for the spraypark is being independently sought by Hyde Park Neighborhood Association (HPNA) through Kansas City's PIAC program.  This is a program completely independent of Parks' budget and the funds can only be used for the project in the application.  So, if we receive funding to build the spraypark, that funding is in no way a diversion of funds from other Parks maintenance or activities.

Second, folks asked about the history of the Gillham Park Master Plan, which is the impetus for the spraypark.  Attached is the Gillham Road Improvement Project ("GRIP")2003 Report to the Parks Department Development Committee (click link). It was a very intensive three year process that involved numerous events, individuals, and input from all five neighborhoods that border Gillham Road. Every effort was made to provide opportunities for all residents to express their opinions in person, through US mail, and through emails. The Gillham Road 2005 Master Plan was the outcome of the GRIP effort in partnership with the Parks Planning Department. The 2005 Master Plan was presented to the neighborhood through HPNA newsletter, website, and a general meeting. HPNA approved the 2005 Master Plan and communicated that to the Parks and Recreation Director in February 2005.  The 2005 Master Plan was approved by the Board of Parks and Recreation Department Commissioners. 

The Report and Master Plan have guided improvements over the last 10 years to Gillham Road totaling over $600,000 including the new playground and reconstructed stone stairs; bush honeysuckle removal by neighborhood volunteers and over 250 Home Depot volunteers two years in a row; over 50 new trees; resurfaced jogging trail donated; additional turf maintenance south of 39th Street provided by local  foundation; additional turf maintenance north of 39th street provided by neighborhood donor; donated landscaping around Eagle Scout Memorial; and donated funds for upgrading and maintenance of the Eagle Scout fountain. Most of this was made possible because the community had a plan built upon extensive resident input and labors with the support of the Parks Department Planning and maintenance crew. 

Gillham Park Concept 1
Gillham Park Concept 2