WICHITA, Kan. (KSNW) — The Wichita City Council has approved a grant application for Botanica that seeks state funding to expand.
The nearly $8 million in funding would come from the Kansas Water Plan Fund, designed to invest in projects around the state that help cover the costs of water infrastructure-related projects. The funds would be used to expand Botanica’s footprint into a portion of Sim Park and create a new Water Education Center.
The facility would feature visible water pipes, channels, and a reservoir system to demonstrate the movement, conservation and reuse of water. It will also feature a conservatory and a greenhouse complex to grow some of the plants featured in Botanica’s grounds. The plans would also include a French or Italian-style garden.
Any additional funds needed to complete the project would come from private donations and would not require any investment from the city. A decision on grant approval from the state would come by the end of the year, and construction could begin as early as 2026…