Commission approves Lake Shawnee cabins in split vote

Gage Park mini-train ready for spring break crowds

County forced to switch road surface materials due to supply shortage

Jail behavioral health unit nears completion, draws state attention

Events center manager departs ahead of major tourism weekend

Commission approves Lake Shawnee cabins in split vote

TOPEKA, Kan. — The Shawnee County Board of County Commissioners voted 2-1 to approve a $42,000 contract with a construction contractor to build two new cabins at a county campground at Lake Shawnee. One commissioner opposed the measure, citing sticker shock over the $250-per-square-foot construction cost for the 590- and 755-square-foot cabins. Despite the cost concerns, other commissioners supported the project, noting it is funded primarily through state grants and user fees rather than property taxes. Parks and recreation director Tim Laurent added that the popular rentals are expected to pay for themselves within five to 10 years.

Gage Park mini-train ready for spring break crowds

TOPEKA, Kan. — Families staying in Shawnee County for spring break will be able to ride the Gage Park mini-train, parks and recreation director Tim Laurent confirmed Thursday. While the Animaland children's play area remains closed, county crews put in overtime this month to reinstall the tracks and ensure the train is fully operational for the upcoming holiday week.

County forced to switch road surface materials due to supply shortage

TOPEKA, Kan. — Shawnee County drivers will notice darker roads this year after the commission unanimously approved a $68-per-ton bid from Missouri-based New Frontier Materials for trap rock. Public works director Curt Niehaus explained that the county's usual lightweight aggregate, known as haydite, is unavailable this year due to supply issues. This prompted the switch to the dark, igneous rock alternative, which several local townships are also currently testing.

Jail behavioral health unit nears completion, draws state attention

TOPEKA, Kan. — The Shawnee County Department of Corrections' new behavioral health unit is just months away from completion and is already drawing regional attention. Corrections Director Brian Cole told commissioners that the facility is expected to host a tour for a state behavioral health advisory group in the coming days, highlighting the county's efforts to improve inmate mental health. The department also plans to meet with a civic service organization to discuss programming related to re-entry services.

Events center manager departs ahead of major tourism weekend

TOPEKA, Kan. — General manager Kellen Seitz has stepped down from his role, prompting Oak View Group, the venue management company, to begin searching for a replacement at the Stormont Vail Events Center. The exact circumstances of his departure have not been publicly disclosed. The leadership transition coincides with a major tourism and economic development weekend for the county. The center's calendar aligns with the Kansas State High School Activities Association state basketball tournament, the Topeka St. Patrick's Day Parade and IrishFest, and Washburn University hosting the NCAA Division II Central Regional Tournament.

Found a mistake? Have a news tip or feedback to share? Contact our newsroom using the button below:

Contact Us