For Immediate Release
Date: April 13, 2022 Contact: Laura Lombardi
PlaNet Productions, Inc.
Phone: 816-510-4000
WELLINGTON’S “COMMUNITY 101” AWARDED
BUILDING A STRONGER ECONOMY (BASE) GRANT
WELLINGTON - Governor Laura Kelly announced that Stomata Development’s “Community 101 – Co-working and Event Center” project in Historic Downtown Wellington has been awarded a Building a Stronger Economy (BASE) grant in the amount of $574,875.
The Strengthening People and Revitalizing Kansas (SPARK) Executive Committee and the Kansas Department of Commerce identified 35 projects across the state they deemed would provide transformational economic opportunities and support Kansas infrastructure investments.
The Community 101 building, located at 101 South Washington Avenue in Wellington, Kansas will provide the community with a wide variety of co-working and event configurations from casual gatherings to more formal assemblies. An open floor plan will offer quiet, communal workspaces during the week and receptions, holiday parties, networking events and many other community functions on the weekends.
“We are creating a welcoming atmosphere for local residents looking for inspiring surroundings beyond their home office, for entrepreneurs, and out-of-town visitors wanting to check email,” said Barry Dicker, President of Stomata Development LLC. “Community 101 will deploy energy efficient and renewable technologies to increase guest comfort and ensure healthy indoor air quality.”
Bringing cutting-edge technologies into the restoration of historic structures like Community 101 increases the building’s long-term viability and while preserving their legacy. Incorporating energy efficient measures also helps building owners manage operating costs, contributing to a more sustainable future.
The Community 101 co-working space will feature daily amenities including cozy seating and tables, KanOkla Networks’ hi-speed fiber internet, a snack bar, and a private salon area. Artists will be invited to display and retail their wares.
Renovation and restoration projects enhance civic pride and ensure downtown business growth, creating jobs and an avenue to stabilize rural populations. During the BASE submission process, the Department of Commerce received 446 applications, which totaled $1.8 billion in requests. Clearly, this response indicates broad need throughout the state.
A list of awards and information about the program can be found at kansascommerce.gov/basegrant/