Manhattan City Digest

Commission to Review Moro Street Design Concepts

MANHATTAN, Kan. — The City Commission is scheduled to hold a work session Tuesday evening to review conceptual options for the reconstruction of Moro Street in the Aggieville district. Following initial feedback in January, city administration has refined concepts for the 60-foot right-of-way that feature angled parking on one side, a 20-foot driving lane, and potential mid-block pedestrian crossings. Staff will seek direction on a preferred design during the session, with plans to return later with a detailed 30% design and updated cost estimates for the two-block project.

City Officials Prioritize Infrastructure and Budget at Retreat

MANHATTAN, Kan. — City Commissioners and staff convened for a two-day strategic planning retreat earlier this month to align on priorities for the upcoming year, focusing heavily on financial sustainability and the 2027 budget outlook. Key discussion topics included street maintenance, broader infrastructure investment, and economic development tools, alongside upcoming decisions regarding sales tax renewals for parks and recreation. While no formal action was taken during the February 2-3 meetings, the discussed policy and funding choices will guide future work sessions throughout 2026.

Sunset Zoo Offers 'Love Bites' Valentine’s Promotion

MANHATTAN, Kan. — In an unconventional celebration of Valentine’s Day, Sunset Zoo is offering the public the opportunity to name a hissing cockroach after an ex-partner, which will then be fed to a sloth bear. The "Love Bites" fundraising event is scheduled for February 13 and 14, and interested participants can purchase a cockroach online to support the zoo's operations.

Parks and Rec Announces Hiring for 2026 Season

MANHATTAN, Kan. — The Manhattan Parks and Recreation Department has opened applications for multiple seasonal positions, specifically seeking lifeguards for the 2026 season. The department is also hiring for its Little Apple Day Camp, with open roles including group leaders, assistant group leaders, and camp administrators, urging interested candidates to apply through their website.

Discovery Center Hosts 'Putts & Pints' for Adults

MANHATTAN, Kan. — The Flint Hills Discovery Center is partnering with Manhattan Brewing Company to host "Putts & Pints," an after-hours event series designed exclusively for adults. Scheduled for February 19, March 19, and April 16, the event allows guests aged 21 and older to explore exhibits and play mini-golf while enjoying a cash bar, with no pre-registration required for attendance.

Recreation Center Launches Member-Only Basketball Nights

MANHATTAN, Kan. — The Anthony Recreation Center has introduced "Friday Night Hoops," a members-only basketball program running Friday evenings from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. starting January 30. The sessions are exclusive to members, with no drop-in fees available, providing a dedicated space for recreational play after regular hours.

Discovery Center Celebrates Members with Gratitude Week

MANHATTAN, Kan. — The Flint Hills Discovery Center is currently observing "Member Week of Gratitude" through February 14, offering a suite of perks to show appreciation for its supporting base. During this period, members can utilize "Bring a Buddy" passes, receive 20% off in the gift store, and enjoy discounts at Flight Crew Coffee, while all guests are invited to make free crafts in the atrium.

Registration for Zoo Summer Camps Opens in March

MANHATTAN, Kan. — Sunset Zoo has announced that registration for its Summer Safari Camp will open on March 2 at 8 a.m. for children in kindergarten through fifth grade. Parents and guardians can register their students for the educational summer sessions online, by phone, or in person at the zoo office.

February School Break Camps Offered at Discovery Center

MANHATTAN, Kan. — The Flint Hills Discovery Center is offering "Camp Discover" sessions in mid-February to engage students in kindergarten through second grade during school breaks. The program features "Prairie Pals" on February 12-13, where children will meet live animals, and "Fun on the Prairie" on February 16, which focuses on pioneer history and games, with pre-registration required for all attendees.

Sunset Zoo Runs Buy-One-Get-One Promotion in February

MANHATTAN, Kan. — Sunset Zoo has launched "Double Luv Wednesdays," a special discount program running every Wednesday throughout February 2026. Visitors can purchase one admission and receive a second one free, a deal that is valid during regular hours and can be combined with the Museums For All program.

Discovery Center Provides Parents' Night Out Service

MANHATTAN, Kan. — The Flint Hills Discovery Center will host a "Parents' Night Out" on Friday, February 20, offering childcare and entertainment for youth ages 6 to 12. The "Kids' Outdoor Adventure Night In" runs from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. and includes prairie-themed activities and s'mores, allowing guardians to enjoy an evening off while their children are supervised by trained education staff.

Adult Craft Workshop to Feature Macrame and Wine

MANHATTAN, Kan. — The "Prairie Craft Collective" will host a "Moscato & Macrame" workshop on Sunday, March 1, inviting adults to learn the craft from local artist Emily Hageman. The registration fee covers expert instruction, all necessary tools to create a plant hanger, and wine for participants, with the event restricted to attendees aged 21 and older.

Source: MHK Insider Newsletter