A Neighborhood Rooted in Community and Change
Nestled in the west-central heart of Manhattan, Kansas, the CiCo neighborhood stands as a living tribute to community spirit, local history, and the vibrant evolution of “The Little Apple.” Lovingly named and full of character, CiCo brings together generations of residents who treasure its green spaces, distinct homes, and enduring sense of belonging.
The Origins of CiCo: How the Neighborhood Got Its Name
The unique name “CiCo” has sparked curiosity for decades. It traces back to CiCo Park, the area’s defining landmark, which sits bordered by Kimball Avenue, Candlewood Drive, and Marlatt Avenue. CiCo Park itself owes its name to a collaborative investment: “Ci” representing “City” and “Co” representing “County.” In the 1960s, the City of Manhattan and Riley County joined forces to buy the land and create a community park—a bold move towards shared recreational opportunities and neighborhood growth.
From the beginning, CiCo was more than just another residential area; it was planned as a focal point for families and community gatherings. Over time, the neighborhood’s identity grew hand-in-hand with the park at its heart.
Key Historical Milestones
The story of CiCo is woven with milestones that reflect both local history and broader national trends. Some standout moments include:
- 1960s: The creation of CiCo Park marks a renaissance in Manhattan’s urban development. As new housing emerges around the park, young families and professionals make the area their home.
- 1970s-1980s: The neighborhood expands westward. Subdivisions along Candlewood Drive, Dickens Avenue, and Allison Avenue rise to accommodate a growing city, while schools like Lee Elementary and Anthony Middle School anchor the community.
- 1990s: The CiCo neighborhood diversifies, welcoming a blend of lifelong Manhattanites, faculty from nearby Kansas State University, and newcomers attracted by the park, good schools, and friendly streets.
- Present Day: CiCo’s strong homeowners associations and neighborhood watch groups keep the spirit of collaboration alive, while annual events (like the CiCo Carnival and youth sports tournaments) make it a hub of activity for all ages.
Notable Landmarks and Beloved Institutions
Perhaps no feature is more cherished than CiCo Park itself. Encompassing more than 70 acres, the park provides:
- Playgrounds and picnic shelters where laughter echoes across spring and summer
- The Doug Chapman Indoor Pool—a year-round destination for fitness and swim teams
- CiCo Baseball Complex, home to Little League matchups and city championships
- Walking trails, tennis courts, and open green space perfect for sunset strolls
- The Riley County Fairgrounds, which hosts the annual county fair, 4-H events, and the bustling farmers’ market
At the northeast corner of the neighborhood, Anthony Middle School and Lee Elementary School have educated generations of Manhattan’s youth. These institutions do more than teach—they bring families together for festivals, concerts, and sporting events, weaving the fabric of daily life in CiCo.
Local churches—like Westminster Presbyterian on Leavenworth Street—and longtime businesses along Kimball Avenue further anchor the area’s heritage.
Streets that Tell Their Own Stories
CiCo’s winding, leafy roads have stories of their own. Candlewood Drive stretches east to west as one of the main thoroughfares, lined with mid-century ranch homes and sturdy split-levels. Dickens Avenue, famous for its stately hardwood trees, becomes a riot of color each fall. Allison Avenue connects backyards filled with laughter and the clink of glasses during block parties.
Each street reflects the architectural trends of its decade, from the manicured lawns and neat hedges of the 1970s to the larger lots and contemporary homes of more recent years. The mix of housing types means lifelong residents live side-by-side with students, young families, and retirees—a hallmark of CiCo’s inclusive vibe.
Evolution Through the Decades
CiCo’s journey mirrors the growth of Manhattan itself. In the early years, the neighborhood was primarily home to families seeking affordable, quality housing close to schools and parks. As Kansas State University expanded, so did the demand for housing, making CiCo a convenient halfway point between campus and the rapidly developing western edge of the city.
With each passing decade, CiCo reflects change while holding tight to its friendly roots. Today, the neighborhood is known for:
- Diverse residents and architectural styles
- Highly ranked public schools and youth recreation programs
- Easy access to shopping centers, the Manhattan Regional Airport, and the University’s athletic complexes
- Ongoing investments in park facilities and community infrastructure
Parents still gather along the fence to cheer on Little League teams. Retirees walk their dogs beneath ancient cottonwoods. New arrivals plant gardens, join local committees, and take pride in maintaining the area’s reputation for safety and neighborliness.
A Living Heritage
Ask anyone who calls CiCo home what makes this neighborhood special, and you’ll hear variations on a common theme: It’s a place where people care. Whether it’s a spontaneous block cookout, volunteering at a school event, or coming together to solve problems, the neighborhood’s spirit endures.
Historical changes—like the expansion of Kimball Avenue or the development of new athletic fields—have brought some growing pains, but CiCo residents adapt and embrace each update with the same resilience that marked the neighborhood’s founding.
Why CiCo Endures
Through generations, through changing architectural fashions and shifting demographics, CiCo maintains its special charm. It’s a neighborhood where kids still ride their bikes until the streetlights flicker on, where neighbors watch out for each other, and where the beauty of shared green spaces ties everything together.
As Manhattan continues to grow, CiCo stands as a living story: a neighborhood built on cooperation, shaped by shared histories, and always looking to the future with optimism and pride.