TOPEKA, Kan. (WIBW) – Two construction projects are coming to Gage Park, with Shawnee County Parks and Recreation awarding bids for a rock garden creek restoration and new fencing near the Playland area.
Nature’s Image Aquatic Design will restore the Doran Rock Garden Creek at a cost of $123,000.
Tim Laurent, director of Shawnee County Parks and Recreation, said the plumbing at the site has not functioned properly for years, and previous repair attempts have been unsuccessful.
“I think the re-circulation,” said Laurent. “I think that that’s probably the only functional, you know, the pond itself is part of the stormwater system that runs through Gage Park. So, that’s a big deal, but I think this particular portion of it, like I said, it hasn’t been operational now for probably three years. So, it’s not something we have to have, but I think it will definitely add to the beauty and the enjoyment of that area.”
The project will include necessary plumbing repairs, excavation work, and stonework, along with the reuse of the rocks removed during construction. It will be funded through the Gage Park Sales Tax.
“So, there’s a lot of integral parts to it, and like I said, it had never been recirculating since its construction. So, we do have a lot of blue-green algae issues there. I’m not saying right now that for sure that’s going to solve the problem, but I think it’s definitely going to help,” Laurent said.
Laurent expects the creek at the Doran Rock Garden project to be completed by June.
Parks and Rec. also approved a $51,000 construction bid for fencing on the east side of the new Playland, between it and the Gage Park Mini Train tracks.
Henderson Fence, Inc. was awarded the construction contract.
Laurent said the project will replace a chain-link fence previously removed for stormwater improvements.
The new installation will feature iron fencing with stone columns. The Gage Park Sales Tax will also fund that project.
Copyright 2026 WIBW. All rights reserved.
Comments are closed.