Olathe council accepts $3 million Variety KC grant for inclusive playground at Two Trails Park
The city's match is up to $750,000 from park sales tax money; council also approved downtown bonds and a land contract with USD 233.
OLATHE - The Olathe City Council voted 7-0 on Nov. 3 to approve an agreement with Variety KC and move park sales tax money into a project for an inclusive playground at Two Trails Park, according to the city's meeting recording.
The city's deputy director of infrastructure told the council it is a $3 million grant on an 80-20 split, with the city's 20% match up to $750,000. Construction is expected to start next summer and run through spring 2028, he said.
Plans include accessible routes, rubberized safety surfacing, sensory play areas, restrooms and drinking water. Variety KC will lead design and construction, with the city as a partner, he said.
Other actions
- Ordinance 26-57 authorizes up to $5 million in taxable industrial revenue bonds for TSSOL Real Estate LLC, for Third Street Social at the northwest corner of Kansas Avenue and Lula Street. It passed 7-0.
- Resolution 26-1094 ratifies a real estate contract with USD 233, described at the meeting as a land swap. It passed 6-1.
- A public hearing on a budget amendment is set for Nov. 17, with action planned Dec. 1.
During public comment, residents spoke against a proposed rezoning for apartments near their neighborhood.
Source: Olathe City Council meeting, Nov. 3, 2026, recording and transcript; Two Trails item.