By COLE REIF
Great Bend Post
A groundbreaking ceremony for the IGNITE Innovation Center in Great Bend took place this past December. Following multiple cold snaps since, Great Bend Economic Development Director Sara Arnberger said foundation work will begin in the next few weeks since the ground is no longer frozen.
With the purpose of providing vocational tools and several amenities for aspiring entrepreneurs, the project has an estimated budget of $7 million. Arnberger said funding for the structure is getting closer to completion.
"To be fully funded for everything we want as far as equipment, we're about $1.5 million off," said Arnberger. "Just to get it build and have the startup equipment we're about $500,000 to $600,000 off. I'm chipping away."
The Innovation Center, to be located at the south side of the 10th Street and K-96 Highway intersection, will include a makerspace with 3D printers, flight simulators and welders. A commercial kitchen, farm pod, computer lab, meeting room and podcast studio will be also be available. Two childcare rooms will be included for after-hours and even overnight childcare services for those parents and guardians working late shifts.
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Great Bend Economic Development hopes to have the Innovation Center constructed by the end of 2025.