GRAND ISLAND, Neb. (KSNB) - The Grand Island Parks and Recreation Department is asking for more money in their 2026 fiscal year budget to help fund an increase in operations, personnel and capital projects costs.

Director Todd McCoy said they are asking for $1,551,718 in the 2026 budget, which is a 12% increase from last year. The department is also asking for $3,963,102 for personnel budget, which is an 8.8% increase from last year.

McCoy said four capital projects are in the works right now for the 2026 fiscal year, and those have been driving the budget.

“There’s the Island Oasis project, which is almost $16 million. There’s the trail along South Locust to Camp Augustine, that’s a $7 million project. The Ryder Park baseball renovation, which is almost a $4 million project and the Sto

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