Construction Progresses on Great Bend’s Ignite Innovation Center

Construction continues at the Ignite Innovation Center in Great Bend, Kansas, as Mayor Alan Moeder confirmed during a recent city council meeting. He reassured attendees that the contractor remains active on-site, with various teams completing essential tasks. “The roofers have been there; I saw the heat and air guys there in the truck today,” Moeder stated. The contractor is currently awaiting the installation of front doors, which are expected to arrive in two weeks.

Moeder also highlighted positive developments in fundraising efforts for the center. “Their fundraising is looking like it’s going well,” he added, aiming to quell any rumors regarding the contractor’s commitment to the project.

Wastewater Treatment Plant Faces Repairs

In addition to construction updates, the Great Bend City Council addressed a significant issue at the Wastewater Treatment Plant. City Administrator Logan Burns reported a breakdown involving the secondary clarifier, which will necessitate costly repairs. “The metal holding the top control arm separated from the pivot point. We are officially down to one clarifier now,” Burns explained.

Utilities Director Darren Doonan is currently preparing specifications for bids to address the damage. “This won’t be a quick fix,” Doonan cautioned, noting that the city is now relying solely on the east clarifier. He expressed hope that a temporary repair could restore functionality quickly.

Doonan mentioned that past weather conditions contributed to the current issues. “In early 2025, we had freezing foam on top of this clarifier, and that caused significant damage to the structural steel,” he said. He emphasized the need for a thorough assessment of the damage by the end of the week.

Burns noted that the last major upgrade to the plant occurred in 1997 or 1998, which has contributed to ongoing failures of major components that typically have a lifespan of 20 to 25 years. “That’s why we continue to see failures,” he remarked.

Upcoming City Council Initiatives

Looking ahead, the city council will host a work session on February 17 with representatives from JEO Engineering Firm. This session will outline a ten-year capital improvement plan for Great Bend’s streets, identifying locations needing attention in three phases. Burns stated that the council will review the budget for Phase One, along with specific locations, for approval.

In other construction news, footings for the tower at the local dragstrip were successfully poured last Friday, with structural steel delivery anticipated by the end of the month. Workers are closely monitoring weather conditions to determine if they can proceed with pavement laying during a potential break in unfavorable weather.

These developments reflect ongoing efforts to enhance infrastructure and support economic growth in Great Bend, positioning the community for future success.