Hays, Kansas Development News
GatherGov Agents listens to meetings 24/7 delivering the latest real estate development updates, legislation, and news.
Development News from the latest meeting
City Authorizes Industrial Revenue Bonds for New Chick-fil-A Project
The City Commission authorized the issuance of industrial revenue bonds (IRBs) for the Chick-fil-A Inc. project, located at 3404 Vine Street. The project involves constructing the restaurant, parking, and site improvements, with an expected opening in fall. This IRB ordinance is being processed earlier than usual due to Chick-fil-A's ownership structure and their progress on construction and material purchases. The city acts as a conduit, and these bonds do not impact the city's debt limit. Only a sales tax exemption on materials was utilized as an incentive, with no property tax abatement. The city requires a site lease and project lease to have an interest in the property for bond issuance, with lease payments covering debt service. The developer purchases and repays their own bonds, meaning the city has no repayment responsibility or financial impact.
R9 Water Project Progress Update: Design, Funding, Land Management, and Legal Matters
An update was provided on the R9 project, a water transmission system. The design includes seven wells, a half-million-gallon storage tank, a pump station, and an elevated storage tank near Shenshin. A 70-mile raw water transmission line, 24 inches in diameter, will run from the R9 ranch to connect to existing pipelines. The route was finalized in 2023. Easements have been secured for 117 out of 130 properties along the route, with 13 remaining. Construction cost estimates are $28.5 million for the well field and $92 million for the pipeline, totaling over $120 million. Funding sources being pursued include an EPA community grant ($11 million), a $20 million BRICK grant application, a WIFIA low-interest loan, and $15 million in matching funds from the Build Kansas fund. Restoration efforts on the ranch property include grass plantings, herbicide treatments to control invasive species and weeds, and fence construction. Invasive species work and property cleanup are ongoing. Public use of the property for hunting is monitored, with usage peaking during hunting seasons. A quail research project is also underway. Security systems, including a dog and camera, are in place. Legal updates were provided on water rights conversion and a lawsuit against Edwards County regarding zoning practices.
City Staff Engage in Diverse Projects: Infrastructure, Public Safety, Parks, and Community Events
City staff have been busy with various tasks including painting pavement markings, replacing concrete due to a water main break, and repairing roads. Firefighters have completed EMTB requirements and participated in community events. Parks staff are managing weeds and mowing due to rain, and cleaning up storm debris. New playground equipment has been installed and is expected to open soon. Drone footage is being used to update the golf course website. The police department remodel is progressing to the implementation phase. The new police station project is underway, with underground utilities and building construction ongoing. The North Side Multi-Use Path and the Exit 161 project are also progressing, focusing on site utilities and street work. The CVB has been active in welcoming new students, hosting community events like the Prairie Picnic, and supporting various local activities and bike tours. August events include markets, historical society conventions, a duck derby, concerts, an outdoor festival, and an art walk.
Commissioner Encourages Downtown Engagement for Weekend Events
Commissioner Cunningham encouraged residents to enjoy the upcoming 'Bazaar on the Bricks' event on Saturday, highlighting activities for youth and the presence of vendors from outside downtown. She also noted the arrival of 'Big Boy' train exhibits this weekend, with operations running through Sunday morning. Other downtown activities include Python's masquerade on Main Saturday night, making downtown a vibrant area for the weekend.
Final Plat Approved for '161 First Edition' Development
The City Commission considered and approved the final plat for '161 First Edition,' a development located north of I-70 and east of Commerce Parkway. The plat encompasses 13 lots ranging from 1.2 to 9.7 acres. It includes a southeast corner stormwater reserve area, and streets named Crossroads Avenue and Midpoint Drive. Water and sewer utilities are being installed, with street installations expected by late fall. The project received prior approval from the Utility Advisory Committee and Planning Commission, passing unanimously there. The approval was granted via Resolution 2612.
Get Weekly Development News of Hays
Get it now for $25/year. Stay ahead of market moving news.
From $25/year
The Hays News archive
City Commission Meeting Agenda Packet (PDF) - 7/23/2026
City Commission Work Session Agenda Packet (PDF) - 7/16/2026
Regular Meeting - Jul 13 2026
City Commission Meeting Agenda Packet (PDF) - 7/9/2026
City Commission Meeting Agenda Packet (PDF) - 7/9/2026
City Commission Work Session Agenda Packet (PDF) - 7/2/2026
Get it now for $25/year. Stay ahead of market moving news. Get your edge today.
GatherGov Market Intelligence
For Owners & Developers
See entitlement risk and deploy capital where there is the highest probability of return
For AEC
Win more projects by discovering opportunities before your competitors do.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hays ,Kansas Real Estate Development
Get Weekly Development News of Hays, Kansas | From $25/year