Vernon Filley Art Museum Demolishes Property to Expand Parking and Future Growth Opportunities

The Vernon Filley Art Museum took another step forward in its long-term vision for growth with the demolition of the house at 505 S. Jackson on July 14, 2025. The structure was removed by Simpson Construction, clearing the way for passive green space, overflow event parking, and potential future development.

The museum originally acquired the property on December 30, 2024, expanding its footprint with a lot that adjoins the existing museum-owned parcel at 5th and Jackson. Together, these lots create a valuable open space directly across from the museum, offering flexible use potential in support of the Filley’s mission.

This project is part of a collaborative effort between the Vernon Filley Art Museum and Blythe Family Fitness to enhance shared access to additional parking and community event space.

“We’re thrilled to see this part of the plan take shape,” said Brittany Novotny, Executive Director of the Vernon Filley Art Museum. “Removing the house not only improves the aesthetics of the neighborhood, it opens up new opportunities for both organizations to better serve our patrons and visitors. This project symbolizes the growth and future potential of our shared commitment to the community.”

“This year, the Filley celebrated eleven years of curating art exhibits and educational programs for the residents of Pratt and our surrounding communities,” said Brittany Novotny, Executive Director of the Vernon Filley Art Museum. “Now we’re looking ahead to the next chapter, and this additional space gives us the ability to dream even bigger. While the space holds much potential for future expansion, current plans are to utilize it for outdoor events and overflow parking during museum, fitness center, and community events.”

“Watching the house come down felt like knocking down a wall to the future. We’re incredibly grateful to our generous supporters listed here who helped make this possible, ” said Board Vice Chair, Sue Givens. 

The Filley Board of Directors extends deep appreciation to those patrons and supporters who devoted time for visualizing the future of the Filley through long range strategic planning and to the following generous contributors who made this acquisition and project possible through their belief in the arts, education, and the future of the museum:

Ross and Jeanie Hoener
Doug and Kay Knight
Dr. Warren and Karen Filley
George and Lu Sherer
Blythe Family Fitness
Cara and Greg Hanson
Dr. Eric and Dr. Amy Clarkson
Steve and Willa Beth Mills
Mike Miller and Lisa Perez-Miller
Darrell and Laurie Stroda
Linda Loomis

Vernon Filley Art Museum Foundation Board of Directors: 
Dick Bixler, Don Buhler, Betty Chinn, Kerry Enick,  Kim Fritzemeier, Rick Gerber, Sue Givens, Cassie Goyen, Lori Jones, Cindy Keller, Kim Krehbiel, Terah Murphy,  Dr. Alex Neel,  Dr. Harlan Shinkle, Kerry Thieme, and Tonya White

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT:
Brittany Novotny, Executive Director
bnovotny@vernonfilleyartmuseum.org
620-933-2787
 www.vernonfilleyartmuseum.org