City of Gardner Planning Commission Meeting 08/24/2026

The City of Gardner Planning Commission held a meeting on August 24, 2026, focusing primarily on development and rezoning proposals. Key procurement-related discussions included the approval of the Flint Trails Revised Final Development Plan, which involved deviations for rear setback encroachments related to patios and decks in a 264-unit townhome project. The commission approved this plan unanimously. Another significant agenda item was the rezoning and preliminary development plan for Prairie Brook 2, proposing to increase residential density by converting duplex lots into fourplex lots, effectively doubling the number of units from 10 to 20. Despite some public concerns about traffic and neighborhood character, the commission recommended approval, forwarding the matter to the city council. The most substantial project discussed was the Velocity Arts mixed-use development, encompassing approximately 215 acres near the I-35 and 175th Street interchange. This large-scale project includes entertainment venues, commercial spaces, a hotel, and educational facilities, with significant infrastructure improvements planned, including roadways and utilities. The developer will be responsible for much of the infrastructure construction, and staff recommended approval of the rezoning and preliminary development plan with conditions. Public comments highlighted the potential economic and cultural benefits of the project, as well as concerns about traffic and community impact. No final votes on the Velocity Arts project were recorded, as it remains in the preliminary stage. Overall, the meeting centered on approving development plans and rezoning requests that will shape future procurement and capital improvement activities in Gardner, Kansas.