ICYMI: Lehigh Portland State Park: A Win for Kansas and Iola

Jul 27, 2023

ICYMI: Lehigh Portland State Park:
A Win for Kansas and Iola

KEY QUOTE: “There’s no doubt, this park will boost the local economy and create yet another space for Kansas families and visitors to spend time together in nature,” Governor Kelly said.

Kelly: Lehigh Portland a win for Iola, State
Richard Luken, Iola Register
July 17, 2023

  • Kelly declared Lehigh Portland as a win for Iola, southeast Kansas, and the state as a whole.
  • Additionally, a state park will have a significant boost on the local economy, Kelly added, pointing to a 2021 Wichita State University study showing Kansas state parks brought in nearly $300 million into the state’s economy, employed more than 6,000 Kansans annually and attracts thousands of tourists to the state.
  • Before entering the political realm, first as a state senator and now as a two-term governor, Kelly served as executive director of the Kansas Recreation and Park Association, which advocated for a public parks system.
  • Gov. Kelly also pointed to Toland’s role in helping turn Lehigh Portland into reality…”As many of you know, building healthy communities is one of David’s passions, and this is just one more way he has contributed to the well-being and the future of his beloved hometown.”

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