In 2017, Quality Play for All set out to fund the Playground Park project. Obtaining funds from a Kansas Department of Commerce Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) became a key factor in funding the project.
These grants require applicants to identify a service area and gather specific information related to income in the area.
Completing the Survey
Working with a professional grant writer, City Commission approval, and many community volunteers, Quality Play for All conducted a random survey of over 580 residents in Junction City. These residents provide key information about their household, including sensitive details about:
- Disability
- Education
- Income
- Race/ethnicity
The survey was completed in October 2017, and Quality Play for All received a CDBG for $188,244 in January 2018.
Other Uses of the Survey
Playground Park isn’t the only project to utilize this survey data. In 2018, the survey was put to use by the City to apply for funds for the Spring Valley Road improvement project. The City was awarded $425,000 in CDBG funds for the upgrades in early 2019.
Currently, the City plans to use the survey to apply for approximately $700,000 in funds for the roundabout at McFarland Road and Eisenhower Drive, according to the City Manager Allen Dinkel.
Impact on Our Community
With a value of over $613,000 already and the potential for up to $1,313,000 in grant funds, use of the income survey has proved invaluable for the Junction City community. The 2017 survey has been gold for us,
said Allen Dinkel. Thanks to all who made that survey happen.
Unfortunately, the survey can no longer be used after this year. Future CDBG requests will require a new survey. If the 2017 survey is an indicator, any future income surveys will be more than worth the time, effort, and coordination put in by volunteers to complete the undertaking.
On August 19, 2019, PlayJC Committee members and staff were invited to present to the Geary County Commission. PlayJC discussed their vision for local youth sports and activities to the commission and answered questions from the elected officials.
The PlayJC.org Committee, an extension of the Quality Play for All Non-Profit, is now accepting volunteer information and building connections between volunteers, local youth sports groups, and other organizations.
