Bonner Springs council unanimously authorizes mayor to explore Centennial Park extension

The Bonner Springs City Council unanimously authorized the mayor to sign a letter of interest to pursue concept work and cost estimates for a potential extension of Centennial Park onto a privately owned vacant lot in the 100 block of Oak Street.

City staff summarized the proposal, telling council members the parcel has been vacant for about 33 years and presents an opportunity to add a mid‑block accessible crossing between Centennial Park, nearby parking and the Farmers Market Pavilion, and to provide long‑requested public restrooms downtown. The staff presentation also noted a splash‑pad option and that the city could draw on its recently completed downtown master plan for design ideas.

Staff emphasized the project would be pursued as a public–private partnership. “If you choose to authorize the mayor to sign a letter of interest, there is no commitment to you at this time,” staff said, outlining next steps: further due diligence, concept development with a private partner and return to council before any purchase or financial commitments are made.

Following brief supportive remarks from council members — who referenced recent downtown investment and upcoming apartment occupancy that staff said would increase foot traffic — the council voted on a motion to authorize the mayor to sign the letter. The mayor’s announcement of the motion recorded that the motion was made by Blanks and seconded by Shannon; the clerk’s roll call recorded seven affirmative votes and the motion passed.

Council members and staff thanked the Shiner family (named by staff as the private partner/presenter) for bringing the opportunity forward and reiterated that the authorization only allows staff and the mayor to explore concepts and pricing. Further design, funding and any purchase would return to the council for approval.