By: NICOLAS FIERRO
Salina Post
The upcoming Boys and Girls Club of Salina (BGCS) facility that is anticipated to be installed at the Bondy field complex, is being considered to be placed at a different location.
City Manager Jacob Wood confirmed the initial location of the facility, which was set just south of Sunset Park on baseball fields is up for consideration. This was based on concerns from the Salina baseball community who use those fields often.
"Based on the discussion we had with the baseball community, staff felt like it was probably pertinent for us to look at other options," said Wood.
BGCS Director, Heather Neuhofel-Tracy also confirmed this consideration as well.
She stated the site that was proposed at the ballfields was being used alot more than what the organization and the City was aware of. Neuhofel-Tracy said there are more than one options of locations for the facility.
Those include the former tennis courts area at Sunset Park, a portion Centennial Park and still the initial baseball field location as of now.
Nothing is finalized yet, but will be brought forth to the City Commission for a decision either end of February or start of March during one of the public meetings.
Summer 2027 is the goal for the facility to open.
BGCS are actively fundraising for this project and from now until the end of the year. Every dollar given toward their endowment at Greater Salina Community Foundation, will be matched for operations by the Ted and Almita Augustine Donor Advised Fund with a goal of getting $500,000 in matching funds to support this project.
To donate or for more information about BGCS go to bgcsalina.com.