Major renovations, including a destination playground, are coming to Black Bob Park in 2025.

The 80-acre park, dedicated in 1981, is receiving a new playground for all abilities that is four times the size of the current playground, and will feature a toddler section for ages 2-5 and another section for children ages 5-12. 

“The destination playground planned for Black Bob Park will offer something for everyone, making it an ideal place for people to gather and experience the outdoors,” Parks Superintendent John Brockus said. “The design is built around the mature trees, making full use of the natural surroundings.”

Other renovations will include two new family restrooms with an adult changing table, a new shelter available for rentals, 120 additional parking spots and other infrastructure improvements. In addition, upgrades to the mini golf and batting cages, owned by Black Bob Ventures, have already been made.

“The 2023 Parks and Recreation Master Plan highlighted our residents’ priority to enhance and upgrade community parks,” Brockus said. “Upgrading the playground, adding more restrooms, and improving parking is a great start to meet these expectations and satisfy the community’s needs.”

Work on the project is set to begin this fall and will be completed in the spring of 2025, with the playground expected to open late May. To accommodate construction, the current playground will be closed from Nov. 2024 through May 2025.

“Black Bob Park has been a cornerstone of the Olathe community for over 40 years,” Brockus said. “These enhancements will alleviate parking congestion, expand recreational opportunities, and foster greater community connections.  This project promises to be an exciting development for the residents of Olathe.”

All renovations for this project are paid for by the Parks Sales Tax. For updates, visit the construction projects webpage.