City commissioners took the next step toward major improvements of Wilson Park outlined in a master plan that has seen little momentum since last October.
The commission on Tuesday approved hiring LK Architecture of Wichita to perform design work for the next phase of that plan, which includes a splash-pad fountain, canopy for the farmers market, two new restrooms, and parking lot construction.
The architects will complete all of the architectural, electrical, plumbing, mechanical and structural engineering for those improvements at a cost not to exceed $65,5000.
City Manager Nick Hernandez said on Tuesday during a commission meeting that the designs costs would be paid through the VJ Wilkins fund, an endowment that supports arts and culture for the community.
“City money will not be utilized for this portion of the project,” he said.
The city will apply for a grant from the state Land and Water Conservation fund to help offset costs for the splash pad.
After refurbishing the train engine fall of last year, this next phase would involve the southern half of the park.
(Read more: The Arkansas City Traveler)