Rhythm & Read Park
Client: Derby Public Library
Location: 1600 E. Walnut Grove Rd., Derby, KS 67037
Category: Civic Construction
Engineer: Professional Engineering Consultants, P.A.
Year of Completion: 2025
The Rhythm & Read Park Project started with Snodgrass & Sons in February, 2025. Five years prior, in 2020, the Library Director Eric Gustafson went to his board with a dream. Originally, the idea was to provide outdoor seating for lunch breaks. In 2023, the library was awarded with a land and Water Conservation Fund Grant through the Kansas Department of Wildlife and parks to help fund the project. Funding came from multiple sources, including the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks, the Land and Water Conservation Fund, the South Central Kansas Library System, and local donations. “Really, this is our gift to the community,” Gustafson said. “Community support is what built this park.” The plans were approved in 2024 and solidified. To read more, view the website below...
The Rhythm & Read Park is approximately 16,650 Sq. Ft., with a splashpad that has 8 spray features and Splash Grass with 6 nozzles by Athco. There are three shade structures with tables and trash receptacles. The children can play on interactive instruments including Chimes, Metallophone, and Drums. There are four artificial palm trees supplied by Oasis Illusions, artificial turf by Foreverlawn, and bomanite paving by Musselman & Hall. Snodgrass & Sons installed the entry sign, seat-wall, sidewalk, rope fence, and performed the earthwork, in tandem with Apex site utilities. CLM followed with landscaping, and Atlas Electric installed all electrical. The Derby Public Library also hired a local artists, Mark and Mary Ward to paint the park’s mural, Gustafson said “It’s one of the first public pieces of art in the city,” he said. “It’s the piece that ties all the park together.”
The park officially opened on September 4, 2025 with a grand opening celebration. It drew a large crowd of locals eagerly anticipating the opening. The children played in the water features and on the musical instruments, while there was a live musician and onlookers admiring the vibrant murals.
The public can now enjoy the park from 6:00 AM – 11:00 PM.
Splash Pad Hours 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM *May 1 – September 30*.
