Major Infrastructure Investments Positively Impacting Region

The Wichita region is making significant strides to strengthen its infrastructure with several major projects, including the City of Wichita’s Northwest Water Treatment Facility, Evergy’s investment in two new natural gas plants and the Kansas Department of Transportation’s North Junction. In conjunction with numerous other infrastructure investments, these large-scale projects represent commitments to the region’s long-term growth, sustainability and economic vitality.

Northwest Water Treatment Facility

The $500 million Northwest Water Treatment Facility, which became operational in late 2024, is the City of Wichita’s largest infrastructure project. The state-of-the-art facility replaces the city’s more than 80-year-old plant, providing 120 million gallons per day of drinking water to more than half a million individuals in Wichita and surrounding communities.

In addition to creating more than 1,800 jobs, the facility includes innovative treatment technologies and is built with advanced design standards to help meet current and future water quality requirements.

Reliable water infrastructure is vital for attracting and retaining businesses, particularly in water-intensive industries like manufacturing and advanced technologies.

“Beyond the immediate economic impact of job creation, the new facility will provide long-term benefits to the south-central Kansas region by supporting new development and business expansions. This large-scale infrastructure shows the Wichita region is prepared for growth,” said Partnership Economic Development Executive Vice President Andrew Nave.

Evergy Natural Gas Plants

Similarly, Evergy’s plans to build two new 705 megawatt (MW) combined-cycle natural gas plants will help meet the electricity needs of the region’s growing economy.

Located in Reno and Sumner counties, each plant is expected to create more than 500 construction jobs and 20-40 full-time, skilled-craft positions once operational. After a 10-year tax exemption, the plants are projected to generate more than $500 million in property tax revenue.

Additionally, the plants will utilize cleaner natural gas technology, reinforcing the region’s commitment to sustainable energy solutions while enhancing the power capacity and reliability needed to support future growth.

“Kansas is experiencing record economic growth, and Evergy is prepared to deliver the reliable, affordable and sustainable energy needed,” Kansas Governor Laura Kelly said in an October 2024 news release. “Evergy’s multi-billion-dollar investment brings direct value to the Hutchinson and Sumner County areas in jobs and tax dollars. It also ensures Kansas can continue to invite business growth that benefits the entire state.”

The Sumner County plant is expected to begin providing electricity in 2029 while the Reno County plant is expected to be operational by 2030.

Transportation

Construction is underway on the Kansas Department of Transportation’s North Junction project to improve one of Wichita’s most vital interchanges where I-135, I-235, K-254 and K-96 converge.

The multi-phase, more than $230 million reconfiguration and expansion of the outdated interchange is expected to reduce traffic congestion, improve mobility and safety, and support economic growth.

Efficient transportation networks support commerce by enabling faster and more reliable movement of goods. It also boosts talent attraction and retention by improving commute times and creating a more connected community. In addition, the North Junction upgrade, along with other roadway enhancements, provides a safer, more accessible transportation system that meets the needs of residents and businesses alike.

A Foundation For Future Development

Together, these projects create a strong foundation for the region’s economic future. Infrastructure improvements, whether in water supply, energy production or roadway systems, create the environment necessary for businesses to thrive. A region that can ensure reliable utilities is better positioned to attract large-scale investments, corporate headquarters and new startups, which in turn will generate more jobs and opportunities for residents.

Other recent investments in infrastructure have been made by Black Hills Energy, the City of Wichita, Kansas Gas Service, Sedgwick County and the Wichita Area Metropolitan Planning Organization.

The Partnership appreciates each of the public and private entities whose proactive efforts are driving economic growth and strengthening the Wichita region for continued business attraction and expansion. These critical infrastructure investments play a pivotal role in supporting the Partnership’s mission to market the region to companies on a global scale.