By COLE REIF
Great Bend Post
Great Bend Public Lands Director Scott Keeler said once the ground softens up staff will be able to install kayak lockers at Veterans Lake and Stone Lake. Great Bend anticipates the end of March for the rentable kayaks to be available.
Great Bend Community Coordinator Christina Hayes said users will be able to rent a kayak, paddle and lifejacket through an online app.
"There will be four units at Stone Lake and four units at Vets," said Hayes. "You'll click the app, get your lifejacket, kayak and paddle. You can go stroll around and return it at the time you have paid for in the app."
A five-year contract with Rent.fun for the eight total kayaks costs $26,000. The Great Bend Convention and Visitors Bureau received a grant from the state and contributed $10,000 for the project, and another $2,000 on signage and promotion. The Great Bend Rec will covered the remaining $16,000.
As of now, the thought is to charge $15 for the first hour of usage, and $5 for each additional hour.