City and USD 446 Finalize Long-Term Lease Agreement for Central Park Sports Complex
Independence, Kansas — October 22, 2025 — The City of Independence has approved a 10-year lease agreement with USD 446 for high school baseball and softball facilities at the new Central Park Sports Complex, marking another milestone in community partnership and investment in youth recreation.
Modeled after the district’s existing stadium lease agreement with Independence Community College, this partnership ensures long-term stability for the district’s athletic programs while supporting the City’s long-term maintenance and upkeep of the complex. The agreement also includes a land credit for two tracts of property to be transferred to the City for future economic development purposes—approximately 35 acres south of Jefferson School and the former soccer fields, which are approximately 20 acres.
City staff appreciate the district’s engagement and collaboration throughout this process and wish to thank the USD 446 Board of Education and administration for their partnership on this important community project.
The Central Park Sports Complex is being developed in multiple phases. Phase I included earthwork for a future west baseball field, storm sewers, essential infrastructure, a soccer pitch, multi-use field, a ball field 4-plex with seating and parking, a walking trail, and a new maintenance building. Phase II added the east baseball field, four new parking areas, bleacher shade structures, and a restroom and concession facility. Phase III is planned to occur once additional funding has been secured and will include play equipment in the 4-plex, pickleball courts, batting cages, and renovated basketball courts. Construction of the west baseball field is not included within the current project budget and would be considered a future phase only if additional funding becomes available after all other planned improvements are completed and funded.
Mayor Scott Smith praised the agreement, stating, “This partnership reflects the best of Independence—working together to provide high-quality facilities for our students, families, and community. Central Park is more than a sports complex; it’s a lasting investment in our city’s future.”
City Manager Kelly Passauer expressed appreciation for the collaboration and added, “I want to thank Finance Director Lacey Lies for her outstanding work in managing the multi-phase complex project and for her success in securing funding resources that have made this vision a reality for our community.”
The City extends its sincere appreciation to the Independence Recreation Commission, Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks, and the National Park Service’s Land and Water Conservation Fund, along with the many private businesses and individual donors whose contributions and support have made the Central Park Sports Complex possible.
The City’s goal for Phase III fundraising is approximately $145,500. Those wishing to contribute can make a tax-deductible donation at donorbox.org/central-park-sports-complex.
For questions about the project, please contact Lacey Lies, Finance Director and Project Manager for the Central Park Sports Complex, at 620-332-2505 or LaceyL@IndependenceKs.gov.