Wichita, Kan. – May 21, 2025 – Downtown Wichita is excited to announce new opportunities for community involvement as Phase 2 of the Downtown Wichita Action Plan (Action Plan) gets underway.

Building on the momentum from a successful Phase 1, where over 500 Wichitans shared their ideas for the future of downtown, the project now invites even broader participation to help shape the next steps. A summary analysis of Phase 1 input and findings is available on the project website for those interested in a deeper dive.

Opportunities for Involvement: Phase 2

• Riverfest Pop-Up: June 1, 2025
  The Action Plan team will host a pop-up booth at Riverfest on Sunday, June 1, from 1 to 6 p.m. Community members can stop by to provide input on ideas to connect downtown to the river, ask questions and learn more about what’s next for Wichita’s urban core.
   
• Open House: June 2, 2025
  Residents are encouraged to attend the second Action Plan open house on June 2, 2025, from 5 to 8 p.m. at TempleLive at Wichita Scottish Rite. Individuals will have a direct hand in shaping design strategies for downtown’s future. This event will focus on translating community priorities identified in Phase 1—such as walkability, housing diversity, cultural vibrancy, and improved public spaces—into actionable design concepts. Mark your calendars and register here to join the conversation.

Recap of Phase 1: Setting the Stage for Downtown’s Future

Phase 1 engaged hundreds of residents in identifying priorities for living and working downtown, urban form, history and culture, landscape systems and mobility. Key themes included more housing options, enhanced walkability, vibrant public spaces and stronger connections to the Arkansas River.

The process also highlighted opportunities to celebrate Wichita’s unique history and culture while addressing challenges such as underused parcels and fragmented investment. The full analysis of Phase 1 input is linked on the project website.

Get Involved

Downtown Wichita’s future is being shaped by the community, and there are multiple ways to get involved in Phase 2. Attend the June 2 open house, visit the Riverfest pop-up and stay engaged through updates here.

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About Downtown Wichita
Downtown Wichita is a private 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation that amplifies the energy, capital, and growth of downtown by empowering residents, visitors and businesses to explore the possibilities of the city’s core. Collaborating with stakeholders, the organization stimulates continued investment and interest in downtown and connects resources from the private sector and local government that allow commerce and culture to thrive. For more information, visit: https://downtownwichita.org/home.

About Sasaki
Sasaki has been a leader in the design industry for 70 years. The firm is known for its integrated design approach, engaging with clients and communities, drawing on history and context, and using data and emerging technologies to shape the built environment. With offices in Boston, Denver, New York, Shanghai, and Los Angeles, Sasaki’s 300 professionals partner with education, civic, institutional, and commercial clients around the world. Sasaki’s integrated services span architecture, interior design, planning and urban design, space planning, landscape architecture, and civil engineering. For more information, visit: https://www.sasaki.com/