Wichita Forward

Modern cable-stayed pedestrian bridge crossing a river with a statue on rocky pedestal in the water, under a partly cloudy sky.

Wichita is at an inflection point.

Our city is growing, but key needs—public safety, homelessness and housing, and aging community facilities—require action if we want Wichita to remain safe, competitive, and financially stable.

Wichita Forward is a citizen-led proposal to make targeted investments in these priorities through a 1% sales tax to fund five projects. The plan funds urgent needs like first responders, addresses homelessness and housing stability, reinvests in Century II and our convention and performing arts facilities, and helps reduce long-term pressure on property taxes.

A vibrant outdoor community event with people drawing colorful chalk art on the pavement and walking around a plaza with green lawns and trees, surrounded by brick buildings and parked cars.

Aerial view of a historic stone courthouse with clock tower surrounded by modern office buildings at sunset.

The proposal is designed with clear guidelines. Funding is capped at $850 million or seven years, whichever comes first. The cost is shared by residents and visitors, with visitors projected to contribute a significant portion of the total.

Accountability is central to this approach. Wichita Forward is a citizen-led, citizen-guided, and citizen-accountable initiative. Independent oversight, defined guidelines and public review will guide implementation. Major capital projects require deliberate processes with planning, design, community input, and formal City Council action.

Downtown cityscape with modern buildings, a large round-roofed arena, green park area with trees, pathways, and a metal sculpture in the foreground under a clear blue sky.

On March 3, Wichita voters will decide whether to move forward with a thoughtful, responsible investment in our city’s future.

Learn More