Heads up, we’re supposed to get some snow and possible ice tonight, so take it slow if you’re heading out and make sure that heater is actually on!
In this week’s Weekend Report, I’m breaking down a major parking project coming to Wesley Medical Center, sharing a handful of events happening around town, and linking my new YouTube video, “Downtown Wichita in 2026: Boomtown or Bust?” where I walk through what’s changing downtown and whether it’s actually becoming a place families want to live.
Scroll down for all the details, stay warm out there, and have an awesome weekend!
– Caleb Claussen (your favorite Realtor 😉)
In Today's Weekend Report:
Wesley Medical Center Parking Project
Weekend Events To Check Out
New Video: Downtown Wichita in 2026: Boomtown or Bust?
Check Out My New Listings!
Wesley Medical Center Parking!
Wesley Medical Center is preparing to kick off one of its most significant infrastructure upgrades in years — a brand-new, expanded parking garage that will better serve patients, visitors, and staff for decades to come. This $65 million project replaces the aging structure on the hospital campus with a modern facility designed for today’s needs.
The new garage, set to begin construction in early January 2026, will offer 1,359 total parking spaces, including 20 motorcycle-specific spots — a substantial increase from what exists now. As part of the project, Wesley will also add a new atrium lobby and updated main hospital entrance, creating a more welcoming and accessible experience for anyone coming to the campus.
🚗 What to Know About Construction and Temporary Parking
While the finished garage will be a big improvement, the construction phase will bring changes you should plan for:
The current parking garage at Hillside and Murdock streets will be demolished starting January 6, 2026, marking the official start of construction.
As a result, the hospital’s Main Entrance on Hillside near the old garage will be closed throughout construction — traffic patterns and access will shift.
To keep things running smoothly, patients, visitors, and staff will be asked to use Wesley’s employee parking garage on Rutan Street (between Central and Murdock).
Additional temporary parking will be available in the lot at the northwest corner of Central and Rutan to help accommodate visitors who need shorter-term spaces.
During this time, the main hospital entrance will be near the Central and Rutan parking area, and an information desk will be set up inside to help people navigate the campus and find their destinations.
🏥 Why It Matters
This project reflects Wesley’s recognition that parking needs have grown along with patient volumes and services — and that a modern, accessible garage will support both everyday operations and the hospital’s long-term growth. Once complete, the facility will offer more space and a better experience for everyone who comes through Wesley’s doors.
Construction is expected to take roughly two years, so planning ahead for where to park and how to enter the hospital will make appointments and visits much easier during that period.
WHAT'S HAPPENIN’ THIS WEEKEND?
💍 Wichita Bridal Expo
Plan your big day at this two-day expo featuring local vendors, fashion, décor ideas, and wedding inspiration.
📍 Location: Century II Performing Arts & Convention Center
📆 Date & Time: January 10–11, 2026 • Sat 10:00 AM • Sun 12:00 PM
🎟️ Tickets: Starting at $17
🔗 More info
🏃 Parkrun at Exploration Place
Kick off your weekend with this free, community-led 5K run or walk along the river.
📍 Location: Exploration Place
📆 Date & Time: January 10, 2026 • 8:00 AM
🎟️ Tickets: Free
🔗 More info
🕯️ Candlelight: Coldplay & Imagine Dragons
Experience popular hits reimagined in an intimate candlelit concert featuring string performances of Coldplay and Imagine Dragons favorites.
📍 Location: Performing Arts Center
📆 Date & Time: January 10, 2026 • 6:30 PM
🎟️ Tickets: $40.85
🔗 More info
🏛️ Free Admission Sundays at the Historical Museum
Explore Wichita’s history with free admission to the Wichita-Sedgwick County Historical Museum.
📍 Location: Wichita-Sedgwick County Historical Museum
📆 Date & Time: January 11, 2026 • 1:00 PM
🎟️ Tickets: Free
🔗 More info
🏒 Wichita Thunder vs. Allen Americans
Cheer on the Wichita Thunder as they hit the ice for an exciting afternoon matchup at INTRUST Bank Arena.
📍 Location: INTRUST Bank Arena
📆 Date & Time: January 11, 2026 • 2:05 PM
🎟️ Tickets: Starting at $26
🔗 More info
Downtown Wichita in 2026: Boomtown or Bust?
Downtown Wichita feels very different heading into 2026. With new development, more families spending time downtown, and big projects reshaping the core, it’s starting to look less like a place you visit—and more like a place you could live.
But is it actually family-friendly… or are there tradeoffs people don’t talk about?
I break it all down in my latest video 👇
Check Out My New Listings!
(Click Each One To See The Full Listing)
LET’S CONNECT!
If you—or someone you know—is thinking about buying, selling, or investing in real estate around Wichita, I’d love to help! And even if you’re just tackling a home project and need a solid contractor recommendation, I’ve got plenty to share. The easiest way to reach me is by call or text at 316-259-1995. Or if it’s easier, you can grab a time on my calendar and I’ll follow up with you!
That’s all for this week! I hope you have an awesome weekend!
-Caleb Claussen
P.S. If you or a friend is looking to buy, sell, or invest around the Wichita market, I’d love to be your real estate resource of choice! Reach out anytime!
