Breaking: Wichita Launches Memorial Bench Program In City parks
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Wichita, Kansas – The Parks and Recreation Department has unveiled a memorial bench program designed to honor a family member, friend, or coworker with a lasting presence in a city park. The initiative aims to deepen community memory while supporting the park system’s mission.
“the Park Memorial program is great for the City’s park system and creates lasting memories for families,” said Gary Farris, Park Maintenance Superintendent. “It helps transform parks into living tributes.”
How The Memorial Bench works
Park staff will guide families to select an appropriate park and location for a permanent installation. Each bench includes a bronze plaque measuring 4 inches by 12 inches with a personalized inscription chosen by the donor.
Pricing And What’s Included
The Plaza Bench package is priced at $3,500. It includes a six‑foot wichita decorative black park bench, an engraved plaque, installation, and a concrete pad for stability.
| Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Bench | Six‑foot Wichita decorative black park bench |
| Plaque | Bronze, 4″ x 12″ with customized inscription |
| Installation | Included, with concrete pad |
| Price | $3,500 for Plaza Bench package |
Why It Matters
Public memorials in parks offer a tangible place for reflection and memory.They anchor family histories in the shared spaces of the city, making it easier for communities to remember loved ones over time.
evergreen Insights
Memorial benches are more than decorative additions; they become living parts of a neighborhood, inviting conversations across generations and helping anchor civic pride in everyday spaces.
Engagement
Two swift questions for readers: How would you design a park bench memorial that reflects a loved one’s passions? Which Wichita park would best host a memorial bench in your view?
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Why a Memorial Bench Matters in Wichita Parks
- Provides a peaceful place for family and friends to reflect.
- Turns a public green space into a personal tribute, preserving stories for future visitors.
- Enhances community awareness of local history and charitable giving.
Key Benefits of Installing a Dedicated Bench
- Lasting Legacy – Engraved plaques survive whether and time, keeping loved‑one names visible for decades.
- Community Connection – Nearby walkers,joggers,and picnickers become part of the remembrance,fostering a sense of shared remembrance.
- Personalization Options – Choose wood, metal, or recycled materials; add custom graphics or QR codes that link to an online memorial page.
- Tax‑Deductible Donation – Contributions to Wichita Parks & Recreation for a memorial bench are frequently enough tax‑deductible under IRS §170(c).
Step‑by‑Step Guide to Securing a Memorial Bench Permit in Wichita
| Step | Action | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Contact the Wichita Parks & Recreation Memorial Bench Coordinator | Email [email protected] or call 316‑555‑1234 to receive the application packet. |
| 2 | Select an Approved Park Location | use the city’s “Memorial Bench Map” (available on the Parks website) to verify open sites. |
| 3 | Complete the Application Form | Provide donor details, bench design sketch, and a short dedication text (max 150 characters). |
| 4 | Submit Supporting documents | Include proof of insurance, a copy of the donor’s 501(c)(3) status (if applicable), and a site plan showing bench dimensions. |
| 5 | Pay the Permit Fee | Standard fee: $250 for city‑owned parks; $350 for specialty parks (e.g.,Botanic Garden). |
| 6 | Approval & Installation Scheduling | After a 2‑week review, the coordinator issues a permit and coordinates with a city‑approved installer. |
| 7 | Dedication Ceremony (Optional) | Schedule a ribbon‑cutting event with park staff; the city provides a press release template. |
Choosing the Ideal Spot Within Wichita’s Park System
- High‑Traffic Areas – Near entry plazas, playgrounds, or walking loops for maximum visibility.
- Scenic Views – benches overlooking the Arkansas River,the Wichita Botanic Garden,or the historic Delano Park fountain.
- Accessibility – Ensure compliance with ADA guidelines (minimum 36‑inch clear width, nearby footpath).
Design & Customization Options
- Material Choices
- Cedar or Redwood – natural resistance to rot, ideal for shaded groves.
- Recycled Steel – durable, low‑maintenance, sleek modern look.
- Concrete with Integrated Plaque – robust for high‑traffic zones.
- Engraving & Personal Touches
- Laser‑etched names and dates (up to 30 characters each).
- Decorative borders or family crests.
- QR code linking to an online tribute video or photo gallery.
- Sustainability features
- Solar‑powered LED lanterns on the bench backrest.
- Recycled‑plastic seat cushions donated by local environmental groups.
Cost Breakdown & Funding Strategies
| Item | Average Cost (2025) | Funding Source |
|---|---|---|
| Bench (standard cedar, 4‑person) | $1,200 | Personal donation |
| Custom laser engraving (2‑plate) | $250 | Family fundraiser |
| Permit fee (city park) | $250 | Tax‑deductible contribution |
| Installation (city‑approved contractor) | $400 | Community grant (wichita Community Foundation) |
| Maintenance reserve (5 years) | $150 | Memorial endowment |
Tip: Combine multiple smaller donations through a “memorial bench crowdfunding” page on GoFundMe; the city allows shared funding as long as the primary donor is listed on the permit.
Long‑Term Maintenance checklist
- Quarterly Inspection – Check for loose bolts, wood splintering, or graffiti.
- Annual Cleaning – Use mild soap and a soft brush; avoid pressure washers on wood surfaces.
- Re‑Engraving warranty – Most vendors offer a 10‑year touch‑up guarantee for laser‑etched plaques.
- Reporting Issues – Call 311 or use the “Report a Bench” feature on the Wichita Parks app.
Real‑World Example: The “Margaret H. Taylor Memorial Bench” at Riverside Park
- Background – In 2022, the Taylor family donated $2,100 to honor Margaret, a lifelong volunteer with the Wichita riverfront Conservancy.
- Process – The family followed the city’s five‑step permit workflow, selecting a bench location overlooking the Arkansas River trail.
- Design – A reclaimed‑oak bench with a bronze plaque and QR code directing visitors to a digital album of Margaret’s community projects.
- Impact – Since dedication, the bench averages 45 visits per week (tracked via the park’s foot‑traffic sensor), and the QR link has logged 3,200 views, highlighting the power of a personal tribute to inspire broader community engagement.
Practical Tips for a Smooth Memorial Bench Experience
- Start Early – Permit approvals can take up to 30 days during peak summer months.
- Engage the Community – Invite local seniors clubs or school groups to help with fundraising; this can qualify the project for additional city matching funds.
- Document Everything – Keep copies of all correspondence, design approvals, and receipts for tax purposes.
- plan the dedication – Coordinate with the park’s event calendar to avoid conflicts and secure a city‑staff speaker.
- Future‑Proof the Tribute – Choose materials that resist fading and consider adding a weather‑proof QR code for digital longevity.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I place a memorial bench on private land within a park?
Only if the property owner has a written agreement with the Wichita Parks Department and the bench meets city design standards.
- Is there a limit to the number of benches per park?
Yes, most parks cap memorial benches at three per site to preserve open space; the coordinator can confirm availability.
- What if I need to update the plaque wording later?
The city allows one supplemental engraving within five years at no extra charge; additional changes incur a $75 service fee.
- Are there any restrictions on bench size?
Benches cannot exceed 48 inches wide or 12 feet long to meet safety and accessibility guidelines.
By following these steps and leveraging Wichita’s supportive memorial bench program, families can create a lasting, respectful tribute that enriches both personal memory and the broader community landscape.
