When you think of Derby, Kansas you may not necessarily think of a vacation destination, but that may soon change. “We’re very excited about what this means for Derby, we’re excited for what this might mean for the future,” said Derby City Manager Kiel Mangus. Derby Shores is the latest and greatest development project hoping to add plenty to do, not just for Derby residents, but for tourists from all over. Developers include the owners of Genesis Health Clubs. “It’s like a small ocean experience you know you’re looking way across, you have beach all the way around. It’s massive,” said Jake McCabe, Genesis VP of Marketing. Derby Shores is a 4.5-acre lagoon with white sandy beaches and plenty of other amenities. It’s estimated to bring in millions of dollars into the community. “Derby Shore is just one piece, so there’s a senior housing component, an apartment component, there’s ziplining, BMX, climbing facility and then Derby Shores which is a lagoon hotel and indoor waterpark piece,” said Mangus. The senior housing and additional apartments will take over another 15 acres in Derby. This development uses STAR bond and private funding, making it Derby’s 3rd STAR bond project. It’s the largest entertainment and tourism destination investment in South Central Kansas history. About 160 million dollars to be exact. STAR bonds come from a state program that utilizes tax dollars to add tourist attractions to Kansas.
Source: KAKE – News
