The Wichita City Council has given the green light to initial funding for two new fire stations in the southwest and northwest part of the city.
In those areas of town, it often takes more than 4 minutes for fire crews to respond to an emergency. The council approved $1 million for land acquisition and project design.
Wichita Fire currently operates 23 stations and plan to build nine new stations over the next 10 years.
Improvements are also coming to the Carl G. Brewer Community Center in McAdams Park.
The project will cost the city $13.7 million, with improvements coming to the original center and with a large addition planned as well.
Council member Brandon Johnson says the center will open up many opportunities for residents and not just playing sports.
The plans are currently under permit review. The city hopes to begin receiving bids in the fourth quarter of 2023, with construction beginning early next year. The project should take 12 to 18 months to complete.