Overview of the Development of Kaw Point Park
Kaw Point is now surrounded by industry and development. In 2001,
the point itself still existed in an overgrown and neglected state.
Volunteers began the process of building and improving the park in
preparation for the Bicentennial commemorative event held on June
26-29, 2004.
The Wyandotte County Lewis and Clark Task Force, in partnership with
the State of Kansas, Unified Government, local Convention and Visitors
Bureau, various community organizations, and private funders, worked
together to improve the site. Donations from local business and
literally thousands of volunteers provided site clean-up, trail
enhancement, infrastructure restoration, signage, historical
interpretation, and visitor support services for the Bicentennial
events.
Since 2004, a renewed effort by the newly organized Friends of Kaw
Point Park, Inc. has resulted in significant improvements and additions
to this legacy project. These included trail resurfacing, the
construction of an amphitheater, installation of informational signage,
flood mitigation work, and fundraising campaign for our future projects.
The upcoming projects will include a $12 million interpretive
center, a return of an authentic paddle-wheel excursion boat, and an
outdoor museum, as well as improvement of the trails, dock, and ramp.
Our goal is to raise $20 million to build this extraordinary historic destination. |