Pawnee Prairie Park hit by thieves, vandals, City considers security measures

WICHITA, Kan. (KSNW) — The Wichita City Council will take up the issue of thefts and vandalism at a popular west Wichita park. On Tuesday, council members are expected to vote on spending $400,000 for a security system and other improvements at Pawnee Prairie Park.

Pawnee Prairie is large, with over 400 acres of natural parkland. It has walking, hiking, bicycle, and equestrian trails. The park also has an open-air shelter and a playground.

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The problem is with one of its buildings that the Department of Park and Recreation used for storage. Due to consistent vandalism and theft at the building, the City says the stored items had to be moved to another location. The building is currently boarded and closed to the public.

Officials with the park department want to fix the building and reopen it. They say there is an opportunity for it to be used in various ways because it has covered outdoor seating, two multi-use spaces, restroom infrastructure, and storage space.

They are asking for $400,000 to repair damage, address maintenance and safety issues, and install a security system.

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The City says the adopted 2024-2033 Capital Improvement Program includes $400,000 for facility improvements at the park. City staff is recommending that council members approve the project during Tuesday’s meeting.

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