(KNZA)--The Friends of Banner Creek Reservoir Board have reached their initial fund-raising goal of $125,000 for the construction of a new multi-purpose shelter house at the reservoir west of Holton.

Board member Deb Dillner made the announcement on their Facebook page.

The Board plans to seek a matching grant through the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism for the project.

Dillner said they have received notice that the submission date for the matching grant application has been postponed from this month to July 1 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

She said it will give them time to polish their grant application, get additional bids and raise additional funds.

Phase one of the project is the building. The building is to included a kitchen, gathering area and basement for a storm shelter.

Additional phases will include a playground, an outdoor grilling area and additional trails to connect the building to the trail system.

Dillner said they will continue with the sale of memorial bricks for placement in the sidewalk around the building. Funds for the bricks can be dropped off at the drive-up windows at any of the Holton banks.

Supporters may also make a donation to the Friends of Banner Creek Reservoir Fund with the Jackson County Community Foundation at www.jacksoncountycf.org

Additional funds raised above the initial goal are eligible for the match.