Topeka receives $6.75 million in BASE grants for local attractions
The Kansas Department of Commerce recently announced recipients of the 2022 BASE (Building a Stronger Economy) grants. The grants, authorized by the SPARK Executive Committee, are designed to support infrastructure development, to address economic development opportunities statewide with the goal of expanding the state’s base of businesses and residents. 35 grants were awarded throughout the state, including two Shawnee County attractions that will receive a combined $6.75 million.
Constitution Hall, the historic Free State capitol in Topeka, Kansas, received $3.75 million in grant funding. The funding will allow the Friends of the Free State Capitol to complete renovations on the oldest building in Topeka, and restore the structure, providing museum-quality exhibition space and preserve an important piece of Kansas history.
“This is a fantastic day for Topeka, and for the people of Kansas,” said David Beck, chair of the Friends of the Free State Capitol. “Constitution Hall represents the ideals our state was founded on. Here in 1855, representatives of the Free State Kansas government wrote the Topeka Constitution, banning slavery in the future state of Kansas. This building also served a vital role as the southern terminus of the Lane Trail, an important route for the Underground Railroad leading people to freedom in the North. This funding will preserve the legacy of those people who fought for freedom in Kansas and will allow us to shine a light on our city’s pursuit of civil rights and social justice for years to come.”
"Downtown Topeka is thrilled to see this progress,” said Rhiannon Friedman, president of Downtown Topeka Inc. “This represents nearly $4 million in capital investment in our downtown core, and not only preserves an important historic building, but creates a compelling new attraction on Kansas Avenue that will bring thousands of visitors to our community and introduce them to the amenities and opportunities our downtown offers.”
The Topeka Zoo and Conservation Center will also receive $3 million in grant funding. The Friends of the Zoo, who took over control of the zoo in 2021, will be able to leverage this funding to complete infrastructure on a new giraffe experience, expand parking on the southwest side of the zoo, and complete other infrastructure projects which may include an event lawn and fire department access drive.
“We couldn’t be more thrilled,” said Zoo Director Brendan Wiley. “The BASE Grant provides funding for critical infrastructure needs that will add economic growth to local communities, and throughout the state. The Topeka Zoo and Conservation Center has experienced phenomenal growth over the past few years, and we can’t wait to show people what is coming next.”
“This investment in our local attractions is incredible!” said Sean Dixon, president of Visit Topeka. “We are grateful to the SPARK Executive Committee for recognizing the value that Constitution Hall and the Topeka Zoo and Conservation Center represent, not just for the city of Topeka, but for the state of Kansas. These grants will allow both attractions to grow and bring new visitors to Shawnee County. Congratulations to everyone involved for making this happen!”
Additionally, the Metropolitan Topeka Airport Authority received $1 million to do site prep work at the Topeka Regional Airport. A full list of grant recipients is available here.
