July 2024
Maize’s strategic location between the major cities of Wichita and Hutchinson makes it an attractive place to reside. This proximity, combined with excellent schools and a low crime rate, offer easy access to the broader metro area while maintaining a distinctive, small-town feel. This balance makes Maize truly unique, and our motto, “Where Community Counts,” resonates with all who live here.
Established in 1886, Maize has experienced significant population growth. Maize saw a 67% growth from the 2010 to 2020 census, making it one the fastest growing cities in the State of Kansas over the decade. That growth continues as Maize is growing at a rate of 4.42% annually with a population increase of 19.51% since the most recent census, which recorded a population of 5,852 in 2020. The city now has an estimated population of 6,997. Ongoing developments are set to bring in additional citizens. There are currently 17 active developments in various phases of construction and build-out.
Education lies at the heart of Maize. The Maize School District is home to award-winning educators, successful students and alumni, and nationally recognized schools. The district is known for its innovative approach, coupled with a personal, caring atmosphere. This suburban school district, which houses more than 8,000 students across multiple buildings with 2,000 employees, ranks among the top 20% of public-school districts in Kansas. It includes three high schools, two middle schools, two intermediate schools, five elementary schools, an early childhood center, a career academy, a virtual preparatory school, and a state of the art performing arts and aquatics center. Additionally, the “West Campus” of Wichita State University brings in about 4,000 students and teachers, enriching our community further.
Industrial and Economic Development
Maize’s economic landscape has evolved significantly with the establishment of the Maize Industrial Park over a decade ago. Home to companies like Reiloy-Reifenhouser USA, Kyodo Yushi Manufacturing, Worthington, Shuttle Aerospace, Aerotech Engineering, and Cox Airparts, the industrial park will soon welcome Charlotte Pipe and Foundry, which is set to open an $80 million facility in 2025. These developments are pivotal in driving economic growth while maintaining the city’s quality of life. Another 76 acres is being prepared for new industrial development as part of a partnership with Hutton Construction, who is actively pursuing tenants along with the Greater Wichita Partnership.
Other businesses that recently joined the Maize community include Redbud Pediatrics and Pawsh Veterinary Clinic. Dibs Boat and RV Storage is nearing completion just off Highway 96 and Maize Rd. Sherwin Williams has begun construction on Maize Rd near 37th Street. Metropolitan Baptist Church, relocating from downtown Wichita, recently held a groundbreaking for its brand-new worship center on 53rd Street on June 2nd. Maize continues to focus its efforts on business attractions. Current work is being done to adopt an economic development policy to make the community competitive with neighboring communities.
The Academy Arts District
A notable recent development in Maize is the Academy Arts District, initiated in 2019 and completed in 2023 with future improvements planned. Maize has never had the traditional downtown characteristics of many other small cities. The Academy Arts District attempts to create the look and feel of a communal area for Maize. This project was designed to create a space where residents can gather, shop, play, and discover. Academy Avenue, the centerpiece of this project, extends from Maize Road east to Cathey St and spans a diverse area that includes a variety of land uses. The east end features single-family residences. The area from Park Avenue and Khedive Street is a growing small business hub, converting residences into shops. MOXI Junction, the city neighborhood coffeehouse, bakery, and art gallery, is the cornerstone of this area. Etcetera, Etcetera is the newest boutique and workshop that has joined Academy Street.
We look forward to the future addition of a crepe store and an ice cream parlor. In addition, a partnership with USD 266 is underway to move Maslow’s Pantry and the City of Maize commodities program to a converted residence that will better serve the Maize community. The west end from Khedive to Cathey Street features the Maize City Park, complete with a large playground, splash pad, and skate park, the Maize Community Building, and the recently constructed Clair Donnelly Amphitheater. The Amphitheater hosts various community events, including “Ballet in the Park” and the Maize Farm & Art Market. The naming of this space is a special memorial to the popular former Mayor Clair Donnelly who was a true community leader and integral in creating the vision for this community feature. To the west of the Academy Arts District, visitors will find several schools and a property owned by the City of Maize that will be developed into a recreation space in the future.
The Academy Arts District has already garnered recognition, winning the Public Works Project of the Year in the Small Cities/Rural Counties category for 2024 by the Kansas Chapter of the American Public Works Association for the roadway and artistic pedestrian pathways design. The Clair Donnelly Amphitheater was awarded the national level American Public Works Association Project of the Year Award in April of 2023.
Strategic Planning for the Future
As Maize continues to grow, city leadership and staff are dedicated to strategic development that preserves the town’s charm while accommodating new opportunities. This year marks the launch of a strategic plan in partnership with the Wichita State University Public Policy Management Center, aimed at ensuring our growth aligns with the community’s needs. Key focus areas include connectivity, accessibility, and addressing traffic challenges created by rapid growth, particularly on 119th Street and the intersection of Tyler and 45th Street. These areas are identified as priorities for necessary infrastructure improvements and city staff are actively seeking grant opportunities.
Another exciting transportation initiative is the Northwest Bypass/Expressway project. This will be a critical economic development corridor that connects Maize, West Wichita, and Goddard by enhancing transportation accessibility and business opportunities for all residents in West Wichita, surrounding suburbs and the western part of Sedgwick County.
Maize is a community where growth is embraced without sacrificing the values that make it special. With a strong emphasis on education, strategic economic development, and a commitment to community well-being, Maize is poised to continue its trajectory as a thriving, progressive city. We look forward to a future where every resident continues to take pride in calling Maize home.
