FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

March 25, 2025

Platte County Parks and Recreation Announces 2025 Outreach Grants to Enhance Local Parks, Programs, and Historical Legacy

Platte County, MO – The County Commission approved the 2025 Platte County Parks and Recreation Outreach Grants to multiple local partners. For nearly 25 years the County’s Outreach Grant Program has enhanced parks and recreational programs and celebrated the county’s rich historical heritage. This year’s grants will fund a wide range of projects aimed at improving local municipalities’ parks, trails, and cultural sites, ensuring that residents across Platte County enjoy upgraded facilities and vibrant community programs.

The 2025 Outreach Grants will support the following projects:

● Edgerton City Park: Electrical lighting upgrades to improve safety and extend usability.

● Harrell Ferrel Park, Platte City: Enhancements to bleachers for better seating and comfort at this popular community space.

● Line Creek Trail, Riverside: Completion of the final phase of the Line Creek Trail between Vivion Road and Gateway Avenue.

● Parkville Veterans Memorial Project: A tribute to honor local veterans with a dedicated memorial led by members of the Parkville American Legion Post #318, the South Platte VFW Memorial Post #7356, and Patriot Outreach.

● Weston, Missouri: Construction of a new skateboard park, featuring lighting, shade canopy, a drinking fountain, and a restroom, as envisioned by the Kayle Moppin Memorial Foundation.

● Village of Ferrelview City Park: Development of an all-inclusive playground and walking trail to ensure accessibility for all.

● Weatherby Lake Community Center: Installation of lighting for tennis and basketball courts.

● Northland Sports Alliance: Equipment to support basketball, soccer, baseball, and softball leagues for youth and families.

● Platte County Historical Society’s Ben Ferrel Museum: Mechanical improvements to preserve and enhance this historic site.

● Weston Historical Museum and Slavery to Freedom Mural: Upgrades to the museum and enrich cultural and educational experiences tied to the county’s storied past.

● Midwest Adaptive Sports: Funding to expand the Always Respect Everyone program, fostering awareness and inclusion for students with disabilities.

● North Platte Historical Museum: Support for musical programming for two free events during June’s “Walk Down Memory Lane” vintage photo exhibit and August’s “Harvest Days” exhibits.

● Platte City Friends of the Arts: Funding for the Outdoor Summer Concert Series, bringing live music to residents.

These projects highlight Platte County’s commitment to improving recreational spaces, promoting inclusivity, and preserving its deep historical roots—from its role in westward expansion to its complex journey from slavery to freedom. The county’s parks and cultural landmarks serve as living testaments to this legacy, blending history with modern community needs.

Presiding Commissioner Scott Fricker emphasized the value of the program, saying, “Platte County’s park and trail system is one of the best in the region, and our Outreach Grant Program is a key reason why. By providing funding to accelerate improvements, we’re empowering our local municipalities to create exceptional spaces for recreation, reflection, and connection. These grants are an investment in our communities, our quality of life, and the preservation of our rich historical heritage.”

The County Commission extends heartfelt thanks to the dedicated groups and volunteers receiving this year’s funding. Their tireless efforts and innovative visions are instrumental in bettering our county, and we deeply appreciate their commitment to enhancing the places and programs that make Platte County special.

For more information about the Outreach Grant Program or the funded projects, please contact Wes Minder at [email protected] or 816-200-7443.