Wichita authorizes triple-utility infrastructure expansion for The Ranch 3rd Addition

Wichita authorizes triple-utility infrastructure expansion for The Ranch 3rd AdditionThe City Council has approved petitions and budgets for new water distribution, sanitary sewer, and stormwater systems to serve a development in District 2.

The Council unanimously approved water, sanitary sewer, and stormwater improvements for The Ranch 3rd Addition.

Resolutions authorize Phase 1 and 2 water improvements and sanitary sewer improvements.

The scope includes Storm Water Drain No. 554 and associated storm water sewer phases.

A separate Water Service Area Agreement was approved with Rural Water District 4.

During the January 13, 2026 meeting, the Wichita City Council moved forward with expanding municipal utility infrastructure to support residential growth. Paul Gunzelman, representing Public Works and Utilities, presented petitions for public improvements regarding "The Ranch 3rd Addition," located in District 2. Gunzelman stated that the project will provide "water, stormwater and sanitary sewer improvements" for the new residential development. He confirmed that the petition represented 100% of the improvement district and was valid per Kansas statute. The Council voted 7-0 to approve the petitions and budgets and adopt the necessary resolutions. According to the agenda documents adopted by the Council, the project scope allows for Phase 1 and Phase 2 water improvements (Resolutions 26-024 and 26-025), alongside corresponding sanitary sewer improvements (Resolutions 26-029 and 26-030). The approval also covers significant stormwater infrastructure, including Storm Water Drain No. 554 and multiple phases of storm water sewers. In a separate utility matter processed via the consent agenda, the Council approved a Water Service Area Agreement with Rural Water District 4 (RWD 4) regarding the Oak Tree Addition. Additionally, under the Capital Improvement Program for Park and Recreation, the Council authorized funding for 2025 irrigation systems to utilize a "preferred irrigation control system" intended to better manage water usage.