"Controversy Swirls as Wichita Opens Urban Wetland Boardwalk Extension"

Trivia Question❓

What famous fast-food chain was originally founded in Wichita, Kansas in 1958?

Answer at the bottom of the newsletter

Wichita Overview | An informative introduction to Wichita, Kansas

City of Wichita Unveils Extension to Pracht Wetlands Park Boardwalk, Promoting Rare Urban Wetland.

The City of Wichita unveiled an extension to Pracht Wetlands Park, one of the few remaining wetlands in the Midwest.

The 91-acre park, developed in phases, recently completed phase three with a new boardwalk extension.

The next phase will include an elevated path connecting existing paths.

Originally farmed by the Pracht family, the property was donated to the city, creating the urban wetland park.

Decorative hunting blinds along the path pay homage to the family's love for duck hunting.

The park, located near 29th Street and Maize Road, offers a rare and unique natural experience in an urban setting.

Wichita is moving forward with its newly approved 2024-2028 Community Development Plan, targeting urban revitalization and stronger housing support.

Guided by the Community Investments division and backed by major HUD funding streams, the city will channel resources into the Community Development Block Grant, HOME, and Emergency Solutions Grant programs.

These efforts prioritize residents who meet specific income guidelines, ensuring assistance reaches those most in need.

The City Council's commitment is evident with a $5 million boost to the Affordable Housing Fund, providing up to $40,000 per house for developers working on affordable homes—especially former public housing units in Northeast and Southwest Wichita.

Additionally, $1.3 million in COVID relief has been allocated, and organizations like Wichita Habitat for Humanity are actively rehabbing dozens of single-family homes in key neighborhoods.

Urban transformation continues downtown as the city partners with renowned firm Sasaki to develop a new 10-year action plan, with public input commencing early 2025.

This newsletter sponsored by

The Belmont

Tucked into Wichita’s historic College Hill, The Belmont has quickly become a neighborhood favorite for scratch-made food, craft cocktails, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

Whether you’re stopping by for a leisurely weekend brunch, gathering with friends over dinner, or enjoying a nightcap on their inviting patio, The Belmont blends big-city flavor with hometown charm.

With its creative menu, stylish setting, and genuine hospitality, it’s the perfect spot to savor Wichita’s community spirit one plate at a time.

Open Streets ICT and Seasonal Events Invigorate Downtown Wichita

Downtown Wichita is set to buzz with energy this autumn, drawing locals and visitors to a vibrant slate of events that celebrate the city’s diversity and spirit.

Open Streets ICT will headline the season on Sunday, September 28, 2025, from noon to 4 p.m., as Douglas Avenue transforms into a lively, car-free zone stretching from Grove to Seneca.

Families can stroll, bike, or skate past live music, dance performances, and hands-on activities that encourage healthy living and fresh ways to explore Wichita.

Other fall favorites return as well, including the Heritage Square Concert Series, offering free lunchtime music each Wednesday, and the Wichita Wagonmasters Downtown Chili Cookoff on September 27, where local teams serve up creative chili for a good cause.

Cultural flair shines at the Wichita Asian Festival and the medieval-themed Great Plains Renaissance Festival, both on September 27-28, bringing unique flavors, performances, and community pride to the heart of the city.