Another source of COVID dollars recently presented itself in the form of Grant dollars through the State of Kansas. SPARK stands for Strengthening People and Revitalizing Kansas. BASE is Building a Strong Economy. BASE grants are SPARK monies and provide funding for things like development of new business parks, development of infrastructure required to support business expansions and development of infrastructures such as railroad spurs, water wastewater, storm water and other utilities and several others.
The City of Ottawa turned in BASE Grant applications for two projects. A new water tower south of I-35, which would serve Proximity Park and the rapidly increasing residential growth occurring in South Ottawa. Also, for a new sewage lift station east of Ottawa on K-68, which would allow for the interstate intersection to the east to grow and develop quicker and bigger as well as additional housing in north Ottawa. City officials say both of these projects have been on the radar, but down on the priority list of new projects and spending. BASE Grant funds could move these up on the list and provide additional security for future growth.
