Joco Today

U.S. Senator Roger Marshall has announced that Junction City Main Street will receive technical assistance and resources to help revitalize its downtown area. The initiative aims to connect the city’s center with nearby natural features such as Milford Lake, local rivers, and prairie lands.

Senator Marshall stated, “As an avid outdoorsman, I applaud Junction City’s efforts to capitalize on its proximity to the many nearby natural resources. These efforts will provide greater opportunities for residents, tourists, and Fort Riley soldiers and their families to experience our state’s diverse outdoor recreation opportunities.”

Jordan McCann, Executive Director at Junction City Main Street, added, “Junction City Main Street envisions a stronger connection between the ‘Best Backyard in Kansas’, Milford Lake, and our historic, newly revitalized downtown. The RERC’s technical assistance program will allow us to develop a strategic plan that drives tourism, strengthens our local economy, and ensures both destinations complement and support one another for long-term growth.”

The project is supported by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Recreation Economy for Rural Communities program along with the Administration’s Make America Beautiful Commission. Plans include linking Main Street with regional recreational sites and engaging military personnel from Fort Riley in these activities. The initiative also seeks to encourage healthy lifestyles among residents while drawing more visitors to support local businesses.

Additionally, Junction City Main Street intends to use existing brownfield assessments and cleanup projects in combination with new green infrastructure solutions. These measures are designed to reduce flooding risks and lessen heat waves in the downtown area.