Kansas starts program to cut costs for community centers
TOPEKA, Kan. (KSNW) — A new state grant program aims to address a common challenge faced by rural Kansas communities: the high cost and complexity of building modern community centers.
The Blueprint to Build initiative, announced by the Kansas Department of Commerce, streamlines the process for small towns to create multi-use community spaces by providing pre-designed building plans and construction funding, aimed at reducing costs and accelerating development.
'For many Kansas communities, finding affordable solutions for community facilities can be difficult,' Lieutenant Governor and Commerce Secretary David Toland said in a news release. 'This innovative new CDBG program provides immediate resources to build vibrant community spaces across Kansas.'
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Eligible communities can apply for grants up to $2.5 million for three standardized, energy-efficient building designs featuring essential amenities like multipurpose rooms and telemedicine offices, with optional gymnasiums or aquatic spaces.
The goal is to reduce costs by eliminating custom architectural work, allowing communities to focus on construction expenses. The centers will be located in walkable downtown areas or near public facilities to lower infrastructure and maintenance costs.
Larger communities such as Wichita, Topeka, and Overland Park are not eligible. Towns with fewer than 2,500 residents can request up to $1.5 million, while those above that population threshold can request up to $2.5 million.
The application period opens on May 1 and will close on Nov. 14. Pre-applications can be submitted.
More information on the grants is available at KansasCommerce.gov or by contacting the Kansas CDBG team at CDBG@ks.gov.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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