By David Markham

Work has begun on a renovation/replacement project on part of the Ernie Miller Nature Center, 909 North Kansas 7 Highway, Olathe. The facility is now closed to drop-in visitors until mid-2026.

“We are getting a much-needed update to the original portion of the nature center that was built in 1985, and part of the reception area that was constructed in 1991,” said Outdoor Education Manager Andrea Joslin. “This well-loved community building will still have the same warm welcoming feel but will have enhancements to the visitor and program participant experience. Thank you for your patience while we make these much-needed renovations.”

This project will replace the nature center’s first phase, which consists of the multipurpose room, which is sometimes colloquially referred to as the fireplace room. This room is located in the northeast corner of the nature center to the right of the center’s reception area.

The project will result in a new multipurpose room, entryway and indoor/outdoor restrooms. Two bird viewing cages, now located outside the building, will be moved into the building’s courtyard and be viewable from the lobby.

Kelly Construction Group of Grandview, Mo., is the contractor for this project. The construction will be staged in the circle drop-off for the nature center. The front entrance of the building is closed off. The remaining parking lots will be open.

Only portable toilets will be available in the park during the project.

Construction will be dependent upon favorable weather, but officials anticipate completion late in the second quarter of 2026.

The park itself will also remain open for people to walk on the trails. Access to park trails and the nature center building during construction may temporarily require pedestrian routes that include steep slopes and longer distances from the parking area than usual.

To inquire about details regarding a specific program, call 913-826-2800 at least two weeks in advance of a activity. The nature center is closed to walk-in visitors during construction because access to the building will be limited.

David Markham is a communications specialist at the Johnson County Park and Recreation District.