Special Parks and Recreation Fund
The Special Parks & Recreation Fund is Reno County’s catalyst for better play, better health, and better access in Reno County!
It supports the development, enhancement, and accessibility of parks and recreation across the county, providing a fair, effective way to allocate funding so residents in both urban and rural communities benefit.
The result: quality recreational spaces, environmental education, and wellness programs that strengthen community health, engagement, and long-term well-being.
Check out the Reno County Special Parks and Recreation Fund Policy 2025 (PDF)
Apply Here: Special Parks and Recreation Fund Application (PDF)
Deadline is February 27, 2026
Funding objectives include:
Expand equitable access to recreational amenities countywide.
Support innovative, inclusive, and culturally diverse programs.
Invest in projects that serve both urban and rural areas.
Promote environmental stewardship, active lifestyles, and youth engagement.
Ensure timely use of funds to prevent excessive carryover balances.
Eligible applicants include:
Incorporated cities within Reno County (excluding the City of Hutchinson).
Nonprofit organizations serving county residents.
Public and private schools and school districts.
Community centers and youth-focused groups (e.g., 4-H, YMCA).
Kansas Department of Wildlife & Parks (for eligible local partnerships).
Nature, cultural, and recreation-focused organizations (e.g., Dillon Nature Center, Hutch Rec).
Eligible projects and expenses may include:
ADA-compliant playground equipment and safety upgrades.
Park shelters, picnic facilities, and restroom installations or upgrades.
Nature trail development, resurfacing, or signage.
Sports field renovation, lighting, or equipment purchases.
Youth, senior, and adaptive wellness programming.
Mobile/pop-up recreation services in underserved areas.
Community gardens or outdoor classrooms.
Public event infrastructure (e.g., pavilions, stages).
Download and complete the fillable application, then email the application and supporting documents to [email protected] .
Email subject line: Special Parks & Recreation Fund Application – [Applicant Name]
Application deadline: by February 27, 2026
See application for required attachments (as applicable):
Project/program description (who benefits, location, timeline)
Itemized budget (and quotes/estimates for major expenses)
Photos/map/site plan (for facility or park improvement projects)
Proof of nonprofit status (if applicable)
Letters of support/partnership (if applicable)
Accessibility/ADA considerations (if applicable)
Maintenance/operations plan
Site control/permission documentation (if applicable)
Questions? Contact Joshua Chonga at 620-694-2925 or [email protected] or Randy Partington at [email protected]
The Special Parks & Recreation Fund is Reno County’s catalyst for better play, better health, and better access in Reno County!
It supports the development, enhancement, and accessibility of parks and recreation across the county, providing a fair, effective way to allocate funding so residents in both urban and rural communities benefit.
The result: quality recreational spaces, environmental education, and wellness programs that strengthen community health, engagement, and long-term well-being.
Check out the Reno County Special Parks and Recreation Fund Policy 2025 (PDF)
Apply Here: Special Parks and Recreation Fund Application (PDF)
Deadline is February 27, 2026
Funding objectives include:
Expand equitable access to recreational amenities countywide.
Support innovative, inclusive, and culturally diverse programs.
Invest in projects that serve both urban and rural areas.
Promote environmental stewardship, active lifestyles, and youth engagement.
Ensure timely use of funds to prevent excessive carryover balances.
Eligible applicants include:
Incorporated cities within Reno County (excluding the City of Hutchinson).
Nonprofit organizations serving county residents.
Public and private schools and school districts.
Community centers and youth-focused groups (e.g., 4-H, YMCA).
Kansas Department of Wildlife & Parks (for eligible local partnerships).
Nature, cultural, and recreation-focused organizations (e.g., Dillon Nature Center, Hutch Rec).
Eligible projects and expenses may include:
ADA-compliant playground equipment and safety upgrades.
Park shelters, picnic facilities, and restroom installations or upgrades.
Nature trail development, resurfacing, or signage.
Sports field renovation, lighting, or equipment purchases.
Youth, senior, and adaptive wellness programming.
Mobile/pop-up recreation services in underserved areas.
Community gardens or outdoor classrooms.
Public event infrastructure (e.g., pavilions, stages).
Download and complete the fillable application, then email the application and supporting documents to [email protected] .
Email subject line: Special Parks & Recreation Fund Application – [Applicant Name]
Application deadline: by February 27, 2026
See application for required attachments (as applicable):
Project/program description (who benefits, location, timeline)
Itemized budget (and quotes/estimates for major expenses)
Photos/map/site plan (for facility or park improvement projects)
Proof of nonprofit status (if applicable)
Letters of support/partnership (if applicable)
Accessibility/ADA considerations (if applicable)
Maintenance/operations plan
Site control/permission documentation (if applicable)
Questions? Contact Joshua Chonga at 620-694-2925 or [email protected] or Randy Partington at [email protected]
Contact Us
Department
Commission Office
Address
206 W 1st Avenue, Hutchinson, KS 67501
Phone