By Trish Svoboda
Today, Governor Laura Kelly announced that a total of $78,800 will be distributed among 12 communities and organizations. This funding will enable the creation of 20 new murals and public art projects, aimed at revitalizing public spaces and engaging locals and tourists.
The Rural Mural Public Art grant program, managed by the Office of Rural Prosperity, has selected recipients from communities statewide, each with a population under 15,000. These murals are set to enhance local gathering spots and tourist sites.
Every project requires an equal contribution from the community, with the smallest communities permitted to provide in-kind donations as their share. As several projects are slated to commence in the coming weeks, three-quarters of the grant funds will be disbursed in advance.
The Office of Rural Prosperity has funded 77 murals in 38 communities since 2021.
Awardees for FY 2025 include:
| Organization | Location | Amount |
| Baxter Springs Chamber of Commerce | Baxter Springs | $7,500 |
| Colby/Thomas County Chamber of Commerce | Colby | $7,500 |
| Greater Salina Community Foundation | Damar, Palco | $7,500 (2 murals) |
| Downs Community Connection | Downs | $7,500 |
| City of Ellis | Ellis | $7,500 |
| Fowler Arts Council | Fowler | $7,500 (3 murals) |
| Hardtner Community Foundation | Hardtner | $7,000 (4 murals) |
| Inman’s Museum Association | Inman | $7,500 |
| Pawnee Co. Economic Development Commission | Larned | $7,500 (3 murals) |
| City of LeRoy | LeRoy | $3,000 |
| Wabaunsee County Historical Society | McFarland | $7,500 |
| Melvern Community P.R.I.D.E. | Melvern | $1,300 |
