https://www.emporiarda.org Emporia Regional Development Association News Feed Wed, 01 Jul 2026 18:04:10 +0000 en-US https://www.emporiarda.org/news-and-media/news-archive/p/item/67803/flint-hills-digital-campus-initiative-signals-major-economic-development-opportunity-for-emporia-and-lyon-county https://www.emporiarda.org/news-and-media/news-archive/p/item/67803/flint-hills-digital-campus-initiative-signals-major-economic-development-opportunity-for-emporia-and-lyon-county Wed, 03 Jun 2026 05:00:00 +0000 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - June 2, 2026CONTACT:Casey WoodsExecutive DirectorEmporia Main Streetdirector@emporiamainstreet.comwww.emporiamainstreet.com620-340-6430Brad KraftVice PresidentRegional Development AssociationBKraft@EmporiaRDA.orgwww.emporiarda.org620-343-8860EMPORIA, Kansas — Local and regional economic development partners are expressing excitement surrounding the proposed Flint Hills Digital Campus, a large-scale digital infrastructure and technology initiative currently in the planning stages in Emporia and Lyon County.The... https://www.emporiarda.org/news-and-media/news-archive/p/item/67265/kansas-built-americas-foundation-now-it-can-power-our-nations-future-through-data-centers https://www.emporiarda.org/news-and-media/news-archive/p/item/67265/kansas-built-americas-foundation-now-it-can-power-our-nations-future-through-data-centers Thu, 16 Apr 2026 05:00:00 +0000 Kansas is not a state that waits for opportunities to find us. Our communities built the foundations that move the rest of the country and have always played a central role in powering the American economy.During my time in the state Legislature, I learned that our greatest successes come when... https://www.emporiarda.org/news-and-media/news-archive/p/item/67202/emporia-area-chamber-of-commerce-welcomes-mike-law-as-interim-president https://www.emporiarda.org/news-and-media/news-archive/p/item/67202/emporia-area-chamber-of-commerce-welcomes-mike-law-as-interim-president Tue, 14 Apr 2026 05:00:00 +0000 The Emporia Area Chamber of Commerce recently introduced Mike Law as its interim president. Law grew up in Emporia and attended college at Emporia State University. After moving to Kansas City to work in radio broadcasting, he is returning home to step into the Chamber leadership role and support the... https://www.emporiarda.org/news-and-media/news-archive/p/item/66921/the-gazette-collective-preserves-a-historic-building-while-creating-mixeduse-space https://www.emporiarda.org/news-and-media/news-archive/p/item/66921/the-gazette-collective-preserves-a-historic-building-while-creating-mixeduse-space Mon, 23 Mar 2026 05:00:00 +0000 The historic Emporia Gazette building is preparing to reopen its doors, only this time it will welcome people in as the Gazette Collective, a modern mixed-use space. Rick and Colleen Mitchell of Mitchell-Markowitz Construction purchased the building in 2022 and have worked to preserve its charm while breathing new life... https://www.emporiarda.org/news-and-media/news/p/item/66613/fairfield-inn-&-suites-by-marriott-opens-in-emporia-bringing-conferencing-and-largescale-accommodation https://www.emporiarda.org/news-and-media/news/p/item/66613/fairfield-inn-&-suites-by-marriott-opens-in-emporia-bringing-conferencing-and-largescale-accommodation Tue, 24 Feb 2026 06:00:00 +0000 Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott recently soft-opened in Emporia, Kansas, bringing a hotel attached to a conference center to the region for the first time in 15 years. While there are multiple hotels in Emporia, this is the only one with a conference center directly attached, making it easier... https://www.emporiarda.org/news-and-media/news-archive/p/item/65781/emporia-main-street-helps-entrepreneurs-grow-their-businesses https://www.emporiarda.org/news-and-media/news-archive/p/item/65781/emporia-main-street-helps-entrepreneurs-grow-their-businesses Fri, 12 Dec 2025 06:00:00 +0000 If you want to start a company in 2026, visit Emporia Main Street to get the tools you need to build your business plan, apply for loans, and network with potential customers and vendors. Emporia Main Street works with entrepreneurs at all levels of development, from residents forming their ideas... https://www.emporiarda.org/news-and-media/news-archive/p/item/65138/lyon-county-state-bank-supports-startups-and-small-businesses-across-the-region https://www.emporiarda.org/news-and-media/news-archive/p/item/65138/lyon-county-state-bank-supports-startups-and-small-businesses-across-the-region Mon, 20 Oct 2025 05:00:00 +0000 Residents and business owners across Emporia have access to one of the best community banks in the region. Lyon County State Bank (LCSB) has been a staple of the area since 1913 and continues to serve customers with the same care as it did 112 years ago.“Our staff is made... https://www.emporiarda.org/news-and-media/news-archive/p/item/64885/vektek-is-poised-to-celebrate-40-years-in-emporia https://www.emporiarda.org/news-and-media/news-archive/p/item/64885/vektek-is-poised-to-celebrate-40-years-in-emporia Thu, 02 Oct 2025 05:00:00 +0000 Vektek is a global leader in hydraulic and pneumatic clamping devices based in Emporia. Since 1986, the company has worked with automotive manufacturers, agricultural equipment producers, and other firms worldwide to improve their operations. Not only is Vektek a trusted firm by its clients, but it was also named Kansas... https://www.emporiarda.org/news-and-media/news-archive/p/item/64766/gravel-city-roasters-offers-good-coffee-and-great-vibes-in-emporia https://www.emporiarda.org/news-and-media/news-archive/p/item/64766/gravel-city-roasters-offers-good-coffee-and-great-vibes-in-emporia Wed, 24 Sep 2025 05:00:00 +0000 Residents and visitors traveling through Emporia, Kansas, can refuel at Gravel City Roasters at 715 Commercial Street. Joe Corn has owned the coffee shop since 2023, but has enjoyed making delicious drinks and treats there since 2010.“As a business owner, this town has been really good to me,” says Corn... https://www.emporiarda.org/news-and-media/news-archive/p/item/63897/hetlinger-helps-disabled-emporians-find-work https://www.emporiarda.org/news-and-media/news-archive/p/item/63897/hetlinger-helps-disabled-emporians-find-work Tue, 29 Jul 2025 05:00:00 +0000 Hetlinger Developmental Services Helps Emporians With Disabilities Find Meaningful WorkPeople with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDDs) can find a sense of community and work opportunities through Hetlinger Developmental Services. The organization offers employment support and day services to help people who would otherwise have difficulty finding a job.“We know that... https://www.emporiarda.org/news-and-media/news-archive/p/item/63498/the-emporia-regional-development-association-hires-jorgenson-pace-to-assist-with-ceo-search https://www.emporiarda.org/news-and-media/news-archive/p/item/63498/the-emporia-regional-development-association-hires-jorgenson-pace-to-assist-with-ceo-search Wed, 02 Jul 2025 05:00:00 +0000 The Emporia Regional Development Association (RDA) is using the executive search firm Jorgenson Pace to hire its next President and CEO. The firm is currently reviewing a large pool of candidates and will narrow the options to a few top contenders. The RDA hopes to name its new CEO by... https://www.emporiarda.org/news-and-media/news-archive/p/item/63418/the-david-traylor-zoo-of-emporia-provides-free-animal-fun-yearround https://www.emporiarda.org/news-and-media/news-archive/p/item/63418/the-david-traylor-zoo-of-emporia-provides-free-animal-fun-yearround Fri, 27 Jun 2025 05:00:00 +0000 The David Traylor Zoo of Emporia is a staple for local families and one of the best places to spend your time as a visitor. It is home to nearly 300 animals across 67 species, each exhibited in natural habitats that provide immersive experiences for visitors. This zoo allows Emporia... https://www.emporiarda.org/news-and-media/news-archive/p/item/62852/sunflower-care-homes-treats-your-loved-ones-like-family-with-longterm-and-memory-care https://www.emporiarda.org/news-and-media/news-archive/p/item/62852/sunflower-care-homes-treats-your-loved-ones-like-family-with-longterm-and-memory-care Thu, 15 May 2025 05:00:00 +0000 Families in Emporia, Kansas, can choose a local assisted living facility for their loved ones who need long-term care, memory care, or respite services. Sunflower Care Homes has room for 12 residents and ensures that at least two employees are on site at all times.“I am very proud of the... https://www.emporiarda.org/news-and-media/news-archive/p/item/62654/emporia-public-schools-celebrates-seven-nominations-for-capturing-kids-hearts-national-showcase-schools https://www.emporiarda.org/news-and-media/news-archive/p/item/62654/emporia-public-schools-celebrates-seven-nominations-for-capturing-kids-hearts-national-showcase-schools Fri, 02 May 2025 05:00:00 +0000 Seven out of nine schools in the Emporia Public Schools district have been nominated as Capturing Kids’ Hearts National Showcase Schools. These schools are “recognized for their excellence in creating safe and welcoming environments where students are relationally connected and eager to learn.” The nominations reflect the entire district's efforts... https://www.emporiarda.org/news-and-media/news-archive/p/item/68041/a-calendar-full-of-events-in-emporia-to-celebrate-americas-250th-year-of-freedom! https://www.emporiarda.org/news-and-media/news-archive/p/item/68041/a-calendar-full-of-events-in-emporia-to-celebrate-americas-250th-year-of-freedom! Mon, 22 Jun 2026 05:00:00 +0000 The countdown to the July 4th holiday weekend has begun, and Emporia plans on celebrating America’s 250th year of independence and freedom with a variety of events that the whole family can enjoy. Glass Blown Open Players Party + Food Truck FestivalEmporia is excited to welcome disc golf fans from across... https://www.emporiarda.org/news-and-media/news-archive/p/item/50794/community-solutions-llc-creates-250-jobs-in-emporia https://www.emporiarda.org/news-and-media/news-archive/p/item/50794/community-solutions-llc-creates-250-jobs-in-emporia Wed, 19 Apr 2023 05:00:00 +0000 TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced Communications Solutions, LLC (CSLLC) will expand its operations to Emporia, Kansas, creating 250 new jobs. “Our partnership with CSLCC, which will create 250 new jobs in Emporia, is a testament to our state’s talented workforce and strong economy,” Governor Laura Kelly said... https://www.emporiarda.org/news-and-media/news-archive/p/item/50800/emporia-selected-to-participate-in-usda-rpic https://www.emporiarda.org/news-and-media/news-archive/p/item/50800/emporia-selected-to-participate-in-usda-rpic Tue, 22 Nov 2022 06:00:00 +0000 The U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development announced that the agency is awarding $4 million in cooperative agreements to 17 organizations under its Rural Placemaking Innovation Challenge program. RPIC provides planning support, technical assistance, and training to encourage placemaking activities in rural communities. Funds can be used to help... https://www.emporiarda.org/news-and-media/news-archive/p/item/50792/biodiesel-facility-demolition-and-fanestil-move-at-rda-board-meeting https://www.emporiarda.org/news-and-media/news-archive/p/item/50792/biodiesel-facility-demolition-and-fanestil-move-at-rda-board-meeting Fri, 16 Jul 2021 05:00:00 +0000 Demolition on Renewable Energy Groups’ partially constructed biodiesel facility may begin soon. During the Regional Development Association of East Central Kansas Board of Directors’ monthly meeting Friday, President Kent Heerman announced that demolition of the facility in southeast Emporia may begin as soon as Tuesday, weather permitting. An exact... https://www.emporiarda.org/news-and-media/news-archive/p/item/50802/longtime-rda-president-kent-heermann-announces-retirement https://www.emporiarda.org/news-and-media/news-archive/p/item/50802/longtime-rda-president-kent-heermann-announces-retirement Fri, 18 Jun 2021 05:00:00 +0000 Kent Heermann announced his intention to retire as the president of the Emporia Regional Development Association during a meeting of the board Friday morning. Heermann will remain in the role he has held for more than 27 years until the first quarter of 2022 in order to give the... https://www.emporiarda.org/news-and-media/news-archive/p/item/50809/progress-2021-simmons-pet-food-experiences-continued-growth-despite-pandemic https://www.emporiarda.org/news-and-media/news-archive/p/item/50809/progress-2021-simmons-pet-food-experiences-continued-growth-despite-pandemic Sat, 23 Jan 2021 06:00:00 +0000 https://www.emporiarda.org/news-and-media/news-archive/p/item/50812/rda-recommends-68-million-quick-trip-development-project https://www.emporiarda.org/news-and-media/news-archive/p/item/50812/rda-recommends-68-million-quick-trip-development-project Sun, 13 Dec 2020 06:00:00 +0000 A $6.8 million development project on a portion of the DeBauge-Krueger tract, near 18th Avenue and Graphic Arts Road, passed the first round of approval from the Regional Development Association, Friday morning. The development would bring in a QuikTrip convenience store and development of a new access road connecting... https://www.emporiarda.org/news-and-media/news-archive/p/item/50796/dynamic-distribution-expands-warehouse-at-detroit-reman-building https://www.emporiarda.org/news-and-media/news-archive/p/item/50796/dynamic-distribution-expands-warehouse-at-detroit-reman-building Fri, 23 Oct 2020 05:00:00 +0000 The Regional Development Association of East Central Kansas voted to move forward with expansion plans for a staple Emporia business Friday morning. Dynamic Distribution — which is classified as a separate business entity from Dynamic Discs, LLC — will now set its sights toward moving into the soon-to-be-vacated Detroit... https://www.emporiarda.org/news-and-media/news-archive/p/item/50799/emporia-kansas-thriving-pet-nutrition-cluster https://www.emporiarda.org/news-and-media/news-archive/p/item/50799/emporia-kansas-thriving-pet-nutrition-cluster Mon, 12 Oct 2020 05:00:00 +0000 https://www.emporiarda.org/news-and-media/news-archive/p/item/50808/pet-food-production-tech-creates-need-for-skilled-labor https://www.emporiarda.org/news-and-media/news-archive/p/item/50808/pet-food-production-tech-creates-need-for-skilled-labor Thu, 20 Aug 2020 05:00:00 +0000 https://www.emporiarda.org/news-and-media/news-archive/p/item/50814/simmons-pet-food-announces-new-projects https://www.emporiarda.org/news-and-media/news-archive/p/item/50814/simmons-pet-food-announces-new-projects Sat, 18 Jul 2020 05:00:00 +0000