Background
The Rieke Lake property is a 465-acre future park site located west of De Soto and north of K-10 Highway. The site includes a 30-acre lake previously used for fishing, as well as a mix of woodlands, forest, and open areas in various forms of agricultural use..

Planning Process
In April, 2008, a consulting team headed by Bowman Bowman Novick, Inc., of Kansas City, Missouri, was hired to develop a master plan for the future park site. At a planning workshop at the De Soto Senior Center on June 2, members of the public had an opportunity to review site maps and suggest features they would like to see included in the park's design.

A second public workshop was held at the De Soto Senior Center on August 11. The consultants presented the proposed master plans they had developed since the initial workshop for the Rieke Lake future park site and Sunflower Nature Park. Those attending the workshop had an opportunity to review and comment on the plans for both properties.

In addition to multiple playgrounds, picnic shelters and restrooms, the Proposed Rieke Lake Master Plan includes:

- Natural amphitheater
- Wetlands with boardwalk
- Camping sites
- Fishing dock
- Boat launch
- Marina for pedal boats and canoes
- Paved multi-use trail (3.1 miles)
- Hiking trail (1.4 miles)
- Disc golf course
- Sand volleyball courts
- Sports practice fields (4)
- 5k boys cross country course
- 3k girls cross country course

Members of the public may provide additional input on the proposed plans by sending comments to JCPRD Park Plans, 411 Nichols Road, Suite 246, Kansas City, MO, 64112, or emailing them to JCPRDcomments@bbnarchitects.com. Emails should include "JCPRD Park Plans" in the subject line.

It is anticipated development of the master plan for the Rieke Lake property will continue through the summer and early fall. The consulting team is tentatively scheduled to present a completed plan to the District board in October. Implementation of the new master plan will be subject to fund availability and board approval.