Wichita City Council members have given unanimous approval to the purchase of the former Park Elementary School for use as a multi-agency center for the homeless. They also approved a sub-agreement for the first project for the building at 1025 North Main, and that will involve renovations and improvements to have it ready for use as an emergency shelter for the homeless this winter.
The city has a master development agreement with PETRA, Inc for renovations of the building, including the installation of a fire suppression system, a new water line, the construction of a privacy wall and screening fences, an access control system, furniture, fixtures and other needs. The $2.2 million cost of the renovations will be funded with American Rescue Plan Act funding that has been received by the city.
The city will be starting a three phase project to get the building ready for use as a Multi-Agency Center (MAC) with a variety of agencies providing services to help people get out of homelessness. The city’s Housing and Community Services director, Sally Stang, said it will be a one-stop location for programs to collaborate and provide ease of access to various services.
