FALL/WINTER 2026-2027
CITY VIEW
MESSAGE FROM
MAYOR BOB HEADLEY AS WE WELCOME THE FALL SEASON,
I am honored to have my first opportunity as your new Mayor to share a message in the City View newsletter. Before I talk about some of the things our City teams have accomplished this year, I thought I would take a moment to introduce myself and share a little about my connection to Grain Valley. I have called Grain Valley home since 1991, when I moved here after leaving the Navy. My late wife and I chose to raise our two sons here, and both of them graduated from Grain Valley High School. Like many of you, our family has grown and made countless memories in this community, and Grain Valley has truly become home. Over the years, I have been fortunate to serve our community in a number of ways, including serving on several local boards. In 2021, I stepped away from city government after 16 years of serving as the Alderman for Ward 3. It is a great honor to return to city government as your Mayor. I am grateful for the opportunity to serve a community that has meant so much to my family and me, and I look forward to working together to keep Grain Valley a wonderful place to live, work, and raise a family. Exciting things are happening in our fine city! On the following pages, you’ll find an overview of the improvements, projects, and partnerships shaping Grain Valley. From Parks and Recreation to Community Development, our departments and community partners continue working together to build a stronger future for our residents. There’s still plenty of work ahead, but we have a lot to look forward to. Today is a great day to be in Grain Valley!
PARKS AND RECREATION: Completion of the Buckner-Tarsney Trail, providing our community with a great new recreational and outdoor resource. Upgrades to Armstrong Park, including the replacement of shelters, the addition of pickleball courts, and a new area for cornhole. Kickoff of the Parks Master Plan for a new park at the corner of Dillingham and Duncan. To learn more about the process, visit www.gvmoevents.org/futureparkplanning.
PUBLIC WORKS Construction of a new water tower is underway, helping ensure the City has the capacity to meet future water demands and support continued growth. The Front Street Improvement Project has been completed, enhancing the roadway and overall infrastructure in the area. The Minter Road water line replacement is nearing completion and is expected to be wrapped up soon, improving the reliability of the City’s water system. Annual asphalt and concrete maintenance programs are in full swing, with a $1.2 million investment dedicated to replacing failed curbs and sidewalks, completing asphalt overlays, and applying micro-seal treatments to roads throughout the City. As everyone is painfully aware, the I-70 expansion project has been in full swing for more than a year, and we still have at least a few more years to go before the work in our region is completed. That being said, there is some very exciting news to share! Working together with a key landowner, MoDOT, Jackson County, and the City of Oak Grove, we were successful in securing a $6.2 million federal earmark to help fund the construction of I-70 entrance and exit ramps at Lefholz Road. This investment will create a second interchange on I-70 in Grain Valley, providing another important connection to our community and helping improve access, traffic flow, and future economic development in the area. This is a tremendous example of what can happen when local, county, state, and federal partners work together toward a common goal!
MAYOR BOB HEADLEY
WATER TOWER PROJECT
As Grain Valley continues to grow, the City is investing in infrastructure to ensure our water system is prepared to meet the needs of our community today and into the future . A 1-million-gallon composite elevated water tower will be constructed at 1201 Tyer Road and will operate alongside the City’s existing 500,000-gallon water tower. The additional capacity will help support anticipated population growth while maintaining reliable water service for current and future residents. The project is currently in the final stages of engineering. Most of the work completed to date has focused on engineering and project preparation. Construction is anticipated to begin this fall, with work expected to start in October or November. Over the next three to six months, residents will begin to see more visible progress on the project. New underground water mains will be installed, followed by construction of the tower foundation. As work progresses, the walls of the tower will begin to rise above the ground, making the project increasingly visible from the surrounding area. Construction is anticipated to continue through winter 2026. Beyond adding storage capacity, the new water tower is an important investment in the City's overall water system. The additional capacity will help accommodate increased water consumption associated with future growth, while supporting the City's ability to meet Missouri Department of Natural Resources standards for safe drinking water and fire flow requirements. This project represents another step toward preparing Grain Valley's infrastructure for the community we are today and the community we are continuing to become.
DEVELOPMENT
UPDATES Grain Valley continues to see new development and investment throughout the community, with several projects moving forward in the coming months. Swade Cannabis has completed construction and is currently awaiting its grand opening. Meanwhile, ALDI is actively under construction and is anticipated to open in early January, weather permitting. Further development is also underway along the Westlakes project. Site work is currently in progress, with store construction expected to follow. The project is anticipated to have an opening date in 2027. The City will continue to provide updates as these projects progress, as well as share information on new development opportunities throughout Grain Valley. An additional smaller residential development is also anticipated to begin later this year, although plans are still being finalized. As projects move through the development and construction process, the City will keep residents informed about what is coming to Grain Valley and what these investments will mean for the community.
Janice Selck, Permit Technician Contact Info: (816) 847-6220
Thinking about building a new deck, fence, or home addition? Before you get started, make sure you have everything you need by visiting our "Building Permit" page on our website! There you'll find everything you need to get started, including the permit application, relevant policies, and detailed instructions. One page. All the info. Zero confusion.
ACTIVITY GUIDE
THINGS TO DO IN
FALL & WINTER
PARKS AND RECREATION
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2026-2027
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Our Mission Grain Valley Parks & Recreation Grain Valley Community Center 713 Main Street, Grain Valley, Missouri 64029 (816) 847-6230 | www.cityofgrainvalley.org
Hours of Operation Monday - Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday
8:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m. 8:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. 8:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
The mission of Grain Valley Parks & Recreation is to provide exceptional recreational and leisure services to all citizens of the community through a diverse offering of programs in quality parks and recreational facilities. Shawn Brady President Tyler Wells Vice President LaTisha Robinson Secretary Norm Combs Becky gray Mike Switzer Mike McCurdy Darin Chance
PARK BOARD The purpose of the Park Board is to plan, maintain, and improve city parks. The Board consists of nine members, appointed by the Mayor, whose terms of office are staggered resulting in three reappointments or replacements prior to June 1 of each year. Board members must be a resident of Grain Valley for one year. The Park Board meets the third Tuesday of each month at 7:00 p.m. at the Grain Valley Community Center, and meetings are open to the public. If you are interested in serving of the Park Board, please complete an application online at www.cityofgrain valley.org.
Shannon Davies Director of Parks and Recreation
Lisa Limberg-Gardner Board of Alderman Liaison
Interested in getting involved? Scan the QR Code on the left.
Contact Us The City of Grain Valley Parks and Recreation Department offers a wide variety of programs and activities to those of all ages, interests and abilites. As our community continues to grow, we will continue to strive to meet the recreational needs of all our citizens. Shannon Davies Director of Parks and Recreation sdavies@cityofgrainvalley.org Jim Meyer Community Center Manager jmeyer@cityofgrainvalley.org Brandin Hallier Recreation Supervisor bhallier@cityofgrainvalley.org Diana Neuwirth Recreation Specialist dneuwirth@cityofgrainvalley.org Jerry Jones Park Superintendent jjones@cityofgrainvalley.org
AVAILABLE
PROGRAMS
Jeff Smith Park Maintenance Joe Welch Park Maintenance Joseph Ancona Park Maintenance
3 easy ways to register for ANY program:
1 Scan QR Code and pay online. QR Code Link: http://grainvalley.recdesk.com
2 Call us at (816) 847-6230. Payment can be taken over the phone!
3 Visit the Community Center. Our staff members are happily waiting to help you!
Our staff may photograph participants in park programs or at special events. Please be aware that photos may be featured in future marketing materials, on social media, and/or on our website. By registering for recreation programs, you agree to allow publication of any photos taken at any program, event or facility. To have an image of yourself and/or your child(ren) removed, please contact our Public Information Officer at info@cityofgrainvalley.org or by calling (816) 847-6293.
Special Events FATHER/DAUGHTER DANCE
Join us for an unforgettable evening of love, laughter, and cherished memories at our Father-Daughter Dance! This magical event is dedicated to celebrating the special bond between fathers (or father figures) and their daughters. It's a night filled with dancing, music, and heartwarming moments that you and your daughter will treasure forever. The last day to register will be Monday, January 25.
Ages: Daughter K-12th Grades When: Saturday, February 6 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Where: Grain Valley Community Center Fee: $20/Couple + $7/additional daughter
CANDY CANE HUNT
DOWNTOWN SPOOKTACULAR On Friday, October 30, the City of Grain Valley will host an evening full of fun, treats and Halloween spirit throughout the downtown district. And just when you think the night couldn’t get any better, we’ll cap things off with a Halloween Fireworks Show! Want to be part of the fun? Businesses are invited to host a treat station during the event! Registration is now open at www.gvmoevents.org. When: Friday, October 30 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Where: Downtown Grain Valley For more information, contact info@cityofgrainvalley.org or via phone at (816) 847-6293.
Santa’s elves have been busy hiding hundreds of candy canes in Armstrong Park! Make sure to dress warm for this fantastic outdoor event! Special prizes will be awarded for finding the “special” candy canes! We will also have candy cane crafts - and of course, hot chocolate! The last day to register will be Wednesday, December 9.
Ages: 1-8 years old When: TBA Where: The hunt will be held in Armstrong Park, but participants will need to check in at the Grain Valley Community Center first. Fee: $10/Child
HOLIDAY FESTIVAL
Join us as we flip the switch to light the Mayor’s Christmas tree! Grain Valley 5th Grade Choir will perform Christmas carols for all to hear as families enjoys free hot chocolate and cookies amongst other fun holiday activities. When: Thursday, December 3, beginning at 6 p.m. Where: Armstrong Park Fee: FREE COMMUNITY EVENT
Youth Programs FALL KIDS KARATE
Karate promotes self-discipline, confidence, and academic excellence while teaching self-defense, sportsmanship, and FUN!
AFTERNOON TOT TIME
Meet us after nap time! Our Tot Time program is a fun, interactive environment where moms, dads, and grandparents can bring their kids for unstructured play. The program is held in the community center gymnasium where children can be in a setting that encourages discovery, exploration and creation discover together. FEATURING OUR INFLATABLES!
Ages (Boys & Girls): Little Dragons: 3 to 5 Years Beginning Karate: 6 to 12 Years When: Every Tuesday from October 6 - November 24 (7 Weeks - No Class On Nov 3) Little Dragons: 4:15 p.m. - 4:45 p.m. Beginning Karate: 4:45 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. Where: Grain Valley Community Center Fee(s): Little Dragons: $50/Participant Beginning Karate: $60/Participant
Ages: 0 Years to Pre-K When: Mondays, 2 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. (begins Sept. 21) *Tot Time is not held when Grain Valley Schools are not in session (either due to scheduled days off or inclement weather)
Where: Grain Valley Community Center Fee: $3/Child | Children Under 1 & Parents Are Free (Optional: RSVP by calling the Community Center at (816) 847-6230. Reservations must be made by 10 a.m. on Monday. A minimum of eight participants must be registered to host Tot Time.)
PRESCHOOL PLAYERS: Instructional Basketball
Preschool Players is a 6-week parent-interactive program that focuses on skill development and fun! This program will rotate participants through stations that focus on major skills of the game. Parents/guardians will be asked to be group volunteers. *The last day to register will be Sunday, October 25!
Ages: 3 to 5 Years When: Saturdays from November 7– December 19 (excluding Nov. 30 holiday weekend) 9 a.m. – 9:45 a.m. OR 10 a.m. – 10:45 a.m. Where: Grain Valley Community Center Fee: $55/Participant (includes t-shirt & medal)
CREATE AND PAINT W/ JUDY BLISS Halloween Edition Join us for a fun and easy Halloween painting class designed for young artists to adults! All ages and artistic abilities are welcome! When: Saturday, October 10 |10 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. Where: Grain Valley Community Center Fee: $30 per painting
YOUTH POTTERY WITH LADO POTTERY
Join our local ceramics experts to learn the fine art of pottery! Participants will be guided in a step-by-step process of making 2 custom ceramic trays for themselves or to gift for the upcoming holiday! Great for beginners or any future child artisan. Ages: 7 to 12 Years When: Saturday, November 14 10:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Where: Grain Valley Community Center Fee: $35/Participant *Clay, molds, and decorating tools will all be supplied by LaDo Pottery.
STORYTIME WITH MRS. CLAUS
Make this season extra special by stopping by Holiday Village for story time! Mrs. Claus will entertain children big and small with her favorite Christmas stories and will gladly take photos with guests (so parents, be sure to bring your camera for this great photo opportunity). Ages: All ages are welcome to attend (stories will be geared for ages 9 and younger) When: Mondays, December 7 and 4 6:00 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. time slots Where: Holiday Village in Armstrong Park Fee: $8/Child
MINI MUCHKINS
Join us for 6 creative playdates designed for 3 to 6year-olds! Each session will include story time, crafts, a snack and play time all based on a fun preschool theme. Mini Munchkins is designed to spark creativity and promote socialization. Dress to get messy. A parent/adult will need to stay with the child and enjoy the fun! *The last day to register is one week prior to each session, if space is available. Ages: 3 to 6 Years Sessions: 1.Little Monsters Workshop ~ Wed., October 14 2.Get Your Gobble On ~ Wed., November 18 3.Have Yourself a Crafty Christmas ~ Wed., Dec. 9 4.Hello, New Year! ~ Wed., January 13 5.Crafts Full of Love ~ Wed., February 10 6.A Little Bit of Luck ~ Wed., March 10 When: Each session will be from 5:30 p.m. – 6:30p.m. Where: Grain Valley Community Center Fee: $10/child per session
Nothing kills a program quicker than waiting until the last minute to register! If there are not enough registrants one week prior to the start of the program, (unless a deadline was extended) it may be canceled.
Senior Programs
The City of Grain Valley recognizes senior citizens as valued residents of our community. All Grain Valley senior citizens 65 years of age or older who live in the city limits, qualify for a free lifetime membership to the Grain Valley Community Center fitness facility. Non-residents can receive a discount for a lifetime membership or it is FREE to SilverSneakers, Silver&Fit, and Renew Active members! We take great pride in the well-being of our senior citizens and offer many events and activities for our senior population. For more information or questions, call the Community Center staff at (816) 847-6230.
SENIOR COFFEE
BINGO SOCIAL
Start your week with a free cup of coffee and visiting with friends at the Community Center.
Join us for an afternoon of laughter, camaraderie, and a whole lot of Bingo excitement with your fellow seniors! Enjoy a free cup of coffee as you play, but hurry because space is limited!
When: Every Monday from 8:30 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. Where: Grain Valley Community Center Fee: FREE
BRIDGE Bridge is the ultimate trick-taking card game, easily the greatest source of enjoyment that four people can have with a pack of cards. Come play “Regular Party Bridge” AKA “Contract Bridge.” One player out of the four must know the basics of the game. When: Every Thursday from NOON to 4 p.m. Where: Grain Valley Community Center Fee: $3/person, or FREE for SilverSneakers, ReNew Active or Silver&Fit members
When: Every Wednesday from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. (No Bingo on the first Wednesday of the month) Where: Grain Valley Community Center Fee: $3/person, or FREE for SilverSneakers, ReNew Active or Silver&Fit members
SENIOR LUNCEHON
SENIOR LINE DANCING
When: First Wednesday (Monthly) Luncheon: 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Bingo: Immediately following luncheon Where: Grain Valley Community Center Fee: Donations accepted ($3 minimum recommended)
When: Tuesdays and Thursdays (weekly) Beginners: 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. Intermediate: 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. Where: Grain Valley Community Center Fee: $3/Class, or FREE for SilverSneakers, ReNew Active or Silver&Fit members
A tradition since 1987, lunch is served by city and business leaders. Meals are prepared by the Grain Valley School District.
A fun way to exercise and learn something you’ve always wanted to do.
PICKLEBALL
Pickleball is a fun, active game that can be mastered by anyone from youth to senior citizens. We provide all equipment needed to play. The court is open to both novice and experienced players with some knowledge of the game! When: Tuesdays & Thursdays (weekly), most Fridays 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Where: Grain Valley Community Center Fee: $3/Walk-In, or FREE for SilverSneakers, ReNew Active or Silver&Fit members
SILVERSNEAKERS FITNESS CLASSIC AND CIRCUIT
SilverSneakers Classic Features seated and standing exercises to increase muscular strength, range of movement, and activities for daily living. Great for beginners or participants with limitations. When: Mondays, Wednesday, and Fridays (weekly) 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Where: Grain Valley Community Center Fee: $3/Class, or FREE for SilverSneakers, ReNew Active or Silver&Fit members SilverSneakers Circuit Features standing upper-body strength work alternated with low-impact cardio using a chair for standing support. Great for a moderate intensity workout, and need to try to exercise in a standing position for a minimum of 30 minutes. When: Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays (weekly) 10:45 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. Where: Grain Valley Community Center Fee: $3/Class, or FREE for SilverSneakers, ReNew Active or Silver&Fit members
Are you interested in sharing your talents with the community? We are always looking to expand the classes we offer! Contact Jim Meyer to learn how you can become an instructor.
For more information, email jmeyer@cityofgrainvalley.org or call (816) 847-6230.
Community Center FACILITY USER INFORMATION
Come visit the Grain Valley Community Center - your first visit is FREE! Locker room facilities are available for users of the fitness center and the gymnasium may be used for recreational activities such as basketball, volleyball, aerobics, and other types of exercise.
USER FEES
GYMNASIUM FEES
The Grain Valley Community Center is home to a gymnasium, fitness center, locker room & shower facilities, conference/meeting room, reception room, and a full commercial kitchen.
UNDER 18 YEARS OLD
$3.00
+18 YEARS OLD
$5.00
FITNESS CENTER FEES & INFORMATION RESIDENT
NON-RESIDENT
WALK IN FEE
$5
$5
INDIVIDUAL (MONTHLY PASS)
$30
$35
INDIVIDUAL (ANNUAL PASS)
$190
$215
COUPLE (ANNUAL PASS)
$260
$300
FAMILY/CORPORATE (ANNUAL PASS)
$325
$380
SENIOR INDIVIDUAL LIFETIME PASS
FREE
$100
CONFERENCE/ MEETING ROOM
SENIOR COUPLE LIFETIME PASS
FREE
$150
RECEPTION/MULTIPURPOSE ROOM
Must be 18 years of age or older 16 to 17 years of age permitted with a paid legal guardian/parent. The Fitness Center will close 15 minutes prior to the posted facility hours. Times are subject to change based on usage and staff availability
GYMNASIUM
Equipment available for Basketball & Volleyball. Also available for rentals for Basketball & Volleyball during normal facility hours. Requests should be made at the community center office.
FITNESS CENTER
Treadmills, elliptical, bicycles (upright & recumbent), weight training machines, free weights, and TVs.
Seats up to 35 people with existing tables and chairs. A dry erase board, a 75 inch TV, and flip chart are available for use.
Holds up to 300 people or 250 seated with existing tables and chairs.
COMMERCIAL KITCHEN
Includes ice machine, refrigerator, coffee makers, water coolers, stove, and oven (available with all multipurpose room rentals).
RENTAL INFORMATION
The Grain Valley Community Center has two available rooms to rent for meetings, corporate events, weddings and receptions, parties, dinners, athletic practices and other social gatherings and celebrations. Free tours, reservation permits, and deposits can be made by visiting us at 713 South Main Street, Grain Valley, Missouri, 64029.
RECEPTION/MULTIPURPOSE ROOM FOR LARGE GROUP PARTIES (+45 PEOPLE)
A separate deposit of $150.00, on all rentals, must be paid at time of reservation. ($85 per hour) This deposit will be refunded if cleaning & damage check is complete. Rental fee includes set up and tear down of existing tables and chairs. Community center staff will be on site during your event. Small groups may reserve the multipurpose room for a reduced rate (see small group parties). A full commercial kitchen with an ice machine, refridgerator, coffee makers, and beverage cadies are available upon request. Our stove and oven, sound system and microphones, and alcohol permits are availabele at additional costs.
SMALL GROUP PARTY (45 PEOPLE OR LESS)
Rent the gymnasium for a 2 hour party - only $60! Drinks and refreshments may be brought in. Additional time is $60 per hour. Rental time includes set-up and clean-up. This rate is only good for rentals during regular facility hours and with 45 people or less. A separate deposit of $50.00 will be due at the time of reservation. Not available Saturdays after 4:00pm.
MEETING ROOM
Security/cleaning deposit on all reservations of $50 must be paid at the time of reservation. Existing 75" TV available upon request for events at no additional charge.
RESIDENT:
$35/HOUR
NON-RESIDENT:
$50/HOUR
GYMNASIUM RENTAL
AVAILABLE FOR BASKETBALL OR VOLLEYBALL
RESIDENT:
$35/HOUR
NON-RESIDENT
$50/HOUR
*Additional fee of $15 per hours for volleyball.*
Note: Prices are subject to change.
Parks and Trails
ARMSTRONG PARK
FOOTBALL FIELD COMPLEX
This 10-acre park is located in the heart of Grain Valley and is loaded with amenities for the entire family. The park currently boasts three picnic shelters with BBQ grills, picnic tables, a gazebo, restrooms, an accessible playground with swings, pickleball courts, asphalt walking trails, and two lighted baseball fields. For larger gatherings, our Pavilion is a great facility to host your company picnic, banquet, or wedding reception. The Pavilion has three elevated stages, private restrooms and is 2-3 times the size of our regular shelters. Shelter, Pavilion and athletic field reservations may be obtained by calling (816) 847-6230.
This complex has two multipurpose fields for football and soccer, restrooms and a picnic shelter.
BLUE BRANCH CREEK TRAIL
Grain Valley has four "pocket parks" nestled back in the middle of housing developments; Clover Park, Eagle Park, Kirby Park, and Farmington Meadows Park.
Blue Branch Creek Trail is a 1.5-mile recreational trail that follows Blue Branch Creek between BucknerTarsney Road and Southwest Eagles Parkway. There are several points of entry to access the trail using on street parking on Rock Creek Lane, Cross Creek Drive, and Laura Lane. There is a designated trailhead parking lot located at the end of Cross Creek Drive, just a quarter-mile north of Sni-A-Bar Boulevard.
BUTTERFLY TRAIL This beautiful asphalt trail, located in the heart of Grain Valley at RD Mize Road and Long Drive is a .8-mile, figure eight loop that traverses around a 10-acre lake. Walking, jogging and biking are all allowed as well as fishing. All animals must be leashed and under control while on the trail.
MONKEY MOUNTAIN PARK This Park is known for its athletic fields. Monkey Mountain Park has 4 baseball/softball fields and 1 multipurpose field. Other amenities include two playgrounds and a picnic shelter for the whole family to enjoy.
NEIGHBORHOOD PARKS
Spending 20–30 minutes in nature reduces cortisol (stress hormone) levels by up to 21 percent. (Frontiers in Psychology, 2019)
PAVILION RATES
$40.00 per hour $50.00 cleaning/security deposit
SHELTER RATES
$35.00 per time block $50.00 for entire day (both time blocks) Rental Time Blocks: 9:00am -2:30pm • 3:00pm - 8:30pm
Grain Valley Residents How to stay in the loop... Want to keep up with the latest Parks and Recreation news? Subscribing to our quarterly-monthly digital/email newsletter allows you to do just that! Subscribe by emailing info@cityofgrainvalley.org or by scanning the QR Code below.
BALL FIELD RATES
$25.00 per hour • $125.00 per day $30.00 field prep fee $25.00 lights (per hour)
Note: Prices are subject to change.
- Grain Valley Parks and Recreation
Armstrong Park
City Hall 711 Main Street
Community Center 713 Main Street
Police Department 719 R.D. Mize Road