By COLE REIF
Great Bend Post
With hot cocoa, cookies and hand warmers available, Great Bend Economic Development conducted a groundbreaking ceremony Thursday afternoon for the IGNITE Innovation Center. Donors and business partners took part in the ceremonial shovel dig at the site on Farmers Plaza, at 10th Street and K-96 Highway.
Economic Development Board Vice Chair Ryan Fairchild said the Innovation Center is a testament to the commitment to the community’s future.
"The Innovation Center will open doors for community members in all stages of life," said Fairchild. "With an eye on vocational tools, unlike anything else in the area, this makes Barton County all that more attractive as a place to live, relocate, raise a family and start a business."
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The project has an estimated budget of $7 million and is being funded through grants and donations.
The center 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.
"Quality workforce, life and education are the foundation of a healthy, local economy," said Fairchild. "Just as the oil boom did for this area, new and innovative opportunities are a must to continue to thrive as a community."
Great Bend Economic Development hopes to have the Innovation Center constructed by the end of 2025.
"I love Barton County. I hope you do too. I want others to love Barton County and come here. Let's be the doers and build a better tomorrow and a better now as those before us did in their time."