ABOUT THE CHAMBER 6

WELCOME TO DODGE CITY 8

WELCOME TO FORD COUNTY 10

ENTERTAINMENT & ATTRACTIONS 14

DODGE CITY CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU 22

CHAMBER MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS 26

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT 30

COMMUNITY INFORMATION 34

EDUCATION 38

USD443 SCHOOL DISTRICT 40

DODGE CITY COMMUNITY COLLEGE 42

HOSPITAL 44

CHAMBER CHECKS 46

CHAMBER COMMITTEES 48

ADVERTISER INDEX 52

CHAMBER MEMBERSHIP LISTINGS 53

Dodge City Area
Chamber of Commerce

101 E. Wyatt Earp Blvd.

Dodge City, KS 67801

Phone: 620.227.3119

Fax: 620.227.2957

www.dodgechamber.com

This is a Town Square Publications, formerly MetroMedia (since 1997), publication created and produced for the Dodge City Area Chamber of Commerce

Copyright © 2023 Town Square Publications

P.O. Box 280, Arlington Heights, IL 60006

(847) 427-4905 | tbusby@tspubsdigital.com

www.TownSquarePublications.com

Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information in this publication. The Chamber and Town Square assume no responsibility for misinformation. Please contact the Chamber with any additions or corrections. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission of the Chamber and Town Square is prohibited.

Chairman, CEO and Publisher |
Douglas K. Ray

President and Chief Operating Officer |
Scott Stone

Vice President / Director | Scott Ray

Managing Director | David Small

Director of Production | Ryan Moore

Sales | Tammie Easson

Project Manager | Sandy King

Who we are & Our mission

Who we are- The Dodge City Area Chamber of Commerce, established in 1917, is a not-for-profit organization of businesses, industry and professional men and women who are dedicated to creating a strong and welcoming business environment in the Dodge City area. The Chamber is a membership-based organization made up of approximately 400 members, is led by a 15-member volunteer Board of Directors and the day-to-day work is executed by a paid staff of full-time employees.

Mission- The mission of the Dodge City Area Chamber of Commerce is to enhance the business climate and improve the quality of life in Dodge City and the surrounding area for our members.

“Our Members are OUR Business!”

To view a listing of our

current staff, officers, and board of directors, please visit

www.dodgechamber.com.

WELCOME

On behalf of the City of Dodge City, it gives me great pleasure to invite you to Dodge City to relive the legend!

Dodge City is a pure definition of the West; one of the most historic western cities in the nation. The city is a gateway to history that began with the opening of the Santa Fe Trail by William Becknell in 1821.

The name Dodge City is synonymous with some of the most notorious lawmen in western history and, by 1872, Dodge City was home to Wyatt Earp, Doc Holliday, and the Masterson brothers.

As you walk the streets and experience our rich cowboy history, you’ll wonder what it was really like in days gone by.

We have positioned Dodge City to become the entertainment destination of Southwest Kansas with the United Wireless Arena, Boot Hill Casino and Resort Conference Center, Dodge City Raceway Park, Long Branch Lagoon Water Park, Western State Bank Expo Center and Boot Hill Casino and Resort.

The downtown area and Heritage District is thriving with businesses, restaurants, and lodging. Excitement surrounds Dodge City as development continues to grow. Boot Hill Museum’s Expansion of interactive exhibits attracted nearly 90,000 visitors in its first year of opening in 2021. Big changes are coming in the fall of 2022, as we kick-off the recently approved construction to revitalize the downtown district with updated infrastructure and streetscape design.

Dodge City is also leading the way with manufacturing. The City’s investment in new technologies, such as the Warrior Project Biogas Facility at the South Wastewater Treatment Plant, has proven essential in maintaining the City’s competitive edge. The future expansion of this facility to accommodate Hilmar Cheese will allow us to continue to attract good paying, steady, and permanent jobs by increasing its processing capacity. Furthermore, this introduces the potential for Dodge City to become a leader in water conservation within the Ogallala Aquifer’s footprint.

In addition, we are tackling the continuing need for housing in one of the fastest growing communities in Southwest Kansas by entering into five housing development agreements for around 200 units. Plus, the great partnership with the Dodge City Community College Building Construction Technology program is training qualified contractors. We’re also excited to announce that Dodge City has been awarded $550,000 in grants awarded to further housing efforts.

Whatever your pleasure is, Dodge City is bound to have it. Dodge City is not only ‘Old West,’ but a modern thriving community focused on making this community the best place to be!

And, don’t forget, every summer, Dodge City celebrates its rich western history with the ten-day Dodge City Days Festival, complete with a PRCA rodeo, western parade, and professional barbecue contest.

Whether you are just visiting, or making Dodge City your home, you’ll find everything you need in our community. Dodge City offers excellent schools, good paying jobs, top-notch medical facilities, venues for that perfect retreat, thrilling entertainment, plenty of shopping, and the charm and excitement of the old west that is always close at hand!

Dodge City has so much to offer, from our growing industry, diverse culture, and our historical past. You’ll feel at home in Dodge City, just as the Cowboys did in the 1870s.

Thank you for choosing Dodge City.

WELCOME

First established in 1867 as part of a Legislative Act to organize the Western regions of Kansas, the area that became Ford County was already a pivotal location in Western geography. The flow of the Arkansas River provided a navigable highway through the area and offered one of the few water sources in an otherwise dry plain. Inspired by the Zebulon Pike expedition, some of the first white travelers through what would become Ford County were the Robert McKnight expedition of 1812. By 1821, a trade route was being established with Santa Fe in what was then part of Mexico. Until the arrival of the AT&ST Railroad, the Santa Fe Trail was the greatest economic highway in the United States. Then, in 1865, with military resources being freed up after the Civil War, Fort Dodge was established to protect traffic along the Trail. Colonel James H. Ford, instrumental in the construction of Fort Dodge, was the namesake for Ford County which was drawn up around the military post. Fort Dodge quickly became a supply post for freighters and buffalo hunters and gained a nationwide reputation as “The Gateway to the Southwest.”

In 1872, the increase of population in the area made it necessary for Ford County to be officially organized which occurred on April 5, 1873 by proclamation of Governor Thomas Osborn. Charles Bassett was appointed the first Sheriff and in June of that year, the other County Officers and first County Commissioners were elected. By 1875, Texas longhorn were cattle driven north to the cattle ranches that began to flourish and dominate the Ford County landscape. Over the years, Ford County saw the rise of the American West. Ford County was home to famous western legends: Bat Masterson, Wyatt Earp, Luke Short, Bill Tilghman and many others.

Today, Ford County maintains its roots in the thriving cattle economy and embraces its place among the western legends. The Ford County Commissioners and staff continue to serve the citizens of Ford County with pride and embrace the rich western heritage. If you are ever out this way, please stop through the Western State Bank Expo Center where you will find a wide range of western events. Also, visit the historic County Government Center that is rich in Hollywood western history.

-Jonathan Gilbert, Ford County Administrator

VISIT

DODGE CITY DAYS

For two weeks each year, at the end of July through the first part of August, the population of Dodge City swells from 30,000 people to more than 100,000 for the city’s annual celebration: Dodge City Days. For more than 60 years, the Dodge City Area Chamber of Commerce, along with community leaders, have hosted the festival to celebrate Dodge City’s great Western heritage. This second-largest annual community event in Kansas is a nationally known 10-day festival. Dodge City Days 2024 will run from July 25 through August 4.

For more information, visit www.dodgecitydays.org

3I SHOW

The 3i SHOW, an Agri-Business Showcase, salutes industry, implements and irrigation. It hosts live demonstrations, presentations, and exhibits from across the United States and Canada displaying agricultural equipment and services and providing information to help visitors with their farm and ranch buying decisions. The 2024 3i show will be held March 12, 13 and 14.

Information

DODGE CITY CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU VISITOR INFORMATION CENTER

Dodge City lets you relive a legend and offers the perfect retreat for a productive meeting, with the Old West’s charm and excitement nearby. The Visitor Information Center is a great resource to help plan your stay and get information about all the things to see and do in and around Dodge City.

400 W. Wyatt Earp Blvd.

(620) 225-8186 | 1-800-OLD-WEST

Winter | Mon- Fri: 7:30AM – 5:30PM

Summer | Sun- Sat: 7:30AM – 6:30PM

www.visitdodgecity.org

Museums

BOOT HILL MUSEUM & FRONT STREET

The museum transports you to the dusty streets of the 1870s and 1880s. Historical exhibits illustrate the life and times of early Dodge City and its unique characters and thriving economy. Admission is charged. Open daily all year except Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day.

500 W Wyatt Earp Blvd.

(620) 227-8188

Winter | Mon-Sat: 9AM - 5PM, Sun: 1PM - 5PM

Summer | Sun-Sat: 8AM - 8PM

www.boothill.org

KANSAS TEACHERS HALL OF FAME & GUNFIGHTERS WAX MUSEUM

The Kansas Teachers’ Hall of Fame is the first of its kind in the United States. It is dedicated to the early and present-day teachers who have devoted their lives to this fine profession. The wax museum offers life-size wax figures of famous Western personalities. Open June to Labor Day.

603 Fifth Ave.

(620) 225-7311

Summer | Mon - Thur: 10AM - 5PM, Fri: 10AM - 1PM, Closed Saturday & Sunday

www.teachershallfamedodgecityks.org

MUELLER-SCHMIDT HOUSE

Also known as the “Home of Stone,” this three-story native limestone house was built in 1881 and is the oldest building in Dodge City still on its original site. Open Memorial Day to Labor Day or by appointment during winter. Donations appreciated.

112 E. Vine

(620) 227-6791

Summer | Mon-Sat: 9AM - 5PM, Sun: 1PM - 4PM

http://www.kansashistory.us/fordco/house.html

Entertainment

2ND AVENUE ART GUILD

The 2nd Ave Art Guild is comprised of a group of area artists who are dedicated to creating a greater awareness of the visual arts. Stop in Friday, Saturday, and Sundays to visit the gallery (12PM - 5PM). Guild members from the Dodge City area create all artwork. The 2nd Avenue Art Guild is a proud partner of “Final Fridays” – a monthly event that celebrates arts, entertainment, food and drink in Dodge City!

608 N. 2nd Ave

(620) 255-1447

Year-Round | Fri-Sun: 12PM - 5PM

Closed Holidays

www.2ndaveartguild.com/

BOOT HILL CASINO & RESORT

Boot Hill Casino & Resort, located in world-famous Dodge City, Kansas, is home to the first state-owned and operated casino gaming in Kansas. Boot Hill Casino features hundreds of slot machines and 16 table games, including Blackjack, Craps, Ultimate Texas Hold’em, Mississippi Stud, TriLux, 3-Card Poker, and Roulette. Must be 21 to enter!

4000 W. Comanche St.

(620) 682-7777

Year-Round | Sun-Sat: All Day

www.boothillcasino.com

BOOT HILL CASINO & RESORT CONFERENCE CENTER

The Boot Hill Casino & Resort Conference Center, adjacent to United Wireless Arena, features six sectioned rooms that can be combined into one 7,200 square foot grand ballroom, able to comfortably hold 600+ people. The rooms can be configured to accommodate many events, from wedding receptions to corporate training. In-house catering provides an extensive menu prepared by the conference center’s award-winning chef.

4100 W. Comanche St.

(620) 371-7390

www.unitedwirelessarena.com

BOOT HILL DISTILLERY

Built-in the former Dodge City Municipal Hall, the Boot Hill Distillery has absolute control over its products. 100% of the grain used to produce all its spirits is grown by the Distillery. Boot Hill Distillery prides itself on its hand-crafted, soil-to-sip experience. Tasting room experiences and tours are available seasonally, call for details. Under 21 allowed into the facility if accompanied by 21+.

501 W. Spruce St.

(620) 371-6309

Tasting Room & Cocktail Lounge

Wed-Sat: 3PM - 11PM

www.boothilldistillery.com

CARNEGIE CENTER FOR THE ARTS

This unique art center in historic downtown Dodge City originally was an Andrew Carnegie Library and is now home to the Dodge City Arts Council. The center provides gallery space and a small gift shop for local artisans.

701 Second Ave.

(620) 225-6388

Year-Round | Tues-Fri: 1PM - 5PM

https://www.visitdodgecity.org/79/Carnegie-Center-for-the-Arts

dge City originally was

DODGE CITY BREWING

The first craft brewery in southwest Kansas, located in historic downtown Dodge City. With a taproom featuring up to eleven handcrafted beers in a variety of styles, the brewery also features brick-oven pizza with house-made, hand-stretched dough, and house-made red sauce.

701 3rd Ave.

(620) 371-3999

Year-Round | Wed-Fri: 4PM - 10PM, Sat: 11AM - 10PM,

Sun: 11AM - 8PM

www.dodgecitybrewing.com

DODGE CITY RACEWAY PARK

3/8-mile dirt track hosts an impressive race schedule from April thru October.

11322 110 Rd.

(620) 225-3277

www.dodgecityraceway.com 

FARMER’S MARKET

Begins the first Saturday in June until the first frost. Open every Saturday from 7AM – 12PM Located along Front Street between 2nd & 1st Ave in downtown Dodge City. Produce & products, made, baked & grown locally. 

(620) 855-0054

Summer | Sat: 7AM - 12PM

https://www.facebook.com/DCfarmersmarket

HISTORIC TROLLEY TOURS

Hop on the Dodge City Trolley for a climate-controlled, one-hour narrated tour of Dodge City’s historic sites. Tours are available daily from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day. Contact the Visitor Information Center to confirm times and availability. The trolley is also available to rent for special occasions.

400 W. Wyatt Earp Blvd.

(620) 225-8186 or 800-OLD-WEST

www.visitdodgecity.org

KANSAS HERITAGE CENTER

The Kansas Heritage Center is a resource center on the history of Kansas, Dodge City, and Old West. It includes a library and admission is free.

1001 N. 2nd Ave.

(620) 225-0248

Year-Round | Mon-Fri: 9AM - 7PM | Sat: 9AM - 5PM

https://dcpl.info/kansas-heritage-center/

LONG BRANCH LAGOON WATER PARK

Over 27,000 square feet of surface area full of fun and exciting family aquatic western themed adventure await. 

111 4th Ave.

(620) 225-8156

Summer | Mon-Sat 12PM - 7PM, Sun: 12PM - 6PM

www.lblagoon.com

SANTA FE DEPOT & SUNDIALS

The Santa Fe Depot is the state’s largest train depot still standing and is the home of the Dodge City Area Chamber of Commerce, Dodge City Convention and Visitors Bureau, Dodge City/Ford County Economic Development Center, AMTRAK, Public Transportation, and Depot Theater. Outside the facility, historic twin sundials show Central & Mountain Time.

201 E. Wyatt Earp Blvd.

(620) 225-1001

Year-Round

www.depottheater.com

UNITED WIRELESS ARENA

With a seating capacity of 3000, this 17,000+ square foot state-of-the-art multipurpose facility can host concerts, sporting events, family shows, motorsports, trade shows, equestrian events, and community events.

4100 W. Comanche St.

(620) 371-7390

Year-Round

www.unitedwirelessarena.com      

WESTERN STATE BANK EXPO CENTER

Offering one million square feet of outdoor exhibition space, an indoor arena, and a 90,000 square foot exhibition hall with heated concrete floors, this facility can host a variety of shows and events. The Western State Bank Expo is home to the 3i SHOW, a premier agribusiness trade show.

11333 Hwy. 283

(620) 338-8284

Year-Round

www.westernstatebankexpo.com

WRIGHT PARK ZOO

The zoo is temporarily closed while undergoing massive renovations as part of its master plan.

71 N. 2nd Ave.

(620) 225-8160

www.dodgecity.org/106/Wright-Park-Zoo

Landmarks

100TH MERIDIAN MARKER

The marker’s storyboard describes the 100th Meridian’s importance and location.

Central Ave. and Wyatt Earp Blvd.

Year-Round

www.visitdodgecity.org

BAT MASTERSON SCULPTURE

Located at the Mueller-Schmidt House (Home of Stone) is a life-sized sculpture of the famous buffalo hunter, gambler, lawman, sportswriter, and army scout, William Bartholomew ‘Bat’ Masterson. Dedicated during the Founder’s Weekend in the summer of 2022, the sculpture is placed at the Home of Stone because of Masterson’s connection to the home, where he attended a housewarming party in 1881.

112 E. Vine St.

Year-Round

http://visitdodgecity.org/314/Dodge-City-Trail-of-Fame

CATTLE FEEDLOT OVERLOOK

The overlook offers a view of the cattle industry today – one of the largest operations in Southwest Kansas.

Highway 56/283, 2½ miles east of Dodge City

Year -Round

www.visitdodgecity.org

CORONADO CROSS

The cross marks the spot where Francisco Vasquez de Coronado, a Spanish explorer, is said to have crossed the Arkansas River in search of the fabled ‘Cities of Gold” in 1541.

1 mile east of Fort Dodge on HWY 400

Year-Round

www.visitdodgecity.org

COWBOY SCULPTURE

Concrete sculpture of Marshal Joe Sughrue erected in 1927.

501 W. Spruce St.

Year-Round

www.visitdodgecity.org

DOC HOLLIDAY SCULPTURE

A life-sized sculpture of John Henry “Doc” Holliday seated at a card table resides in front of the Boot Hill Museum and the Visitor Information Center.

4th Ave. & Wyatt Earp Blvd.

Year-Round

http://visitdodgecity.org/314/Dodge-City-Trail-of-Fame

DODGE CITY AREA WOMEN’S CHAMBER - ROSE GARDEN

The memorial/commemorative garden was dedicated on July 16, 1987, on the Dodge City Community College campus with a wide variety of hybrid roses.

DODGE CITY TRAIL OF FAME AND BRONZE SCULPTURES

This self-guided walking tour of the City’s bronze statues and medallions honoring real and fictional characters from its “wild west” past, located throughout downtown, will take visitors to bronze statues of Wyatt Earp, Doc Holliday, and Matt Dillion and medallions honoring famous Dodge Citians and fictional characters played by the likes of James Arness, Buck Taylor, Amanda Blake, Errol Flynn, Hugh O’Brien, and many more.

Downtown Dodge City

Year-Round

www.visitdodgecity.org/314/Dodge-City-Trail-of-Fame

EL CAPITAN SCULPTURE

The bronze sculpture commemorates the 1875-1885 Texas cattle drives to Dodge City.

510 N. 2nd Ave.

Year-Round

www.visitdodgecity.org

FIRE BELL PARK

The original fire bell retrieved from the old City Hall is on display in a place of honor with plaques memorializing Dodge City’s firefighters.

201 Soule St.

Year-Round

www.dodgecity.org/476/Fire-Bell-Park

FORT DODGE & KANSAS VETERANS CEMETERY

Long before Dodge City was a hustling, bustling cattle town, Fort Dodge was established to protect railroad workers and travelers on the Santa Fe Trail from the Plains Indians. Today, the Fort is used as a retirement community and nursing facility for Kansas veterans. A historic library and self-guided walking tour tell the fort’s history. The museum and library are open daily from 1 PM to 4 PM. Admission is free.

East Highway 400, 5 miles east of Dodge City

(620) 227-2121

https://kcva.ks.gov/veteran-cemeteries/fort-dodge

GOSPEL HILL CHURCHES

North and east of Boot Hill: Presbyterian Church – 801 Central, Sacred Heart Church – 905 Central, St. Cornelius Church – First and Spruce.

IMMACULATE HEART OF MARY CHURCH

Located in Windthorst, Kansas

(620) 385-2326

By appointment only - Mon-Fri: 9AM - 5PM

www.windthorstheritage.org

LA SALSA MAN

La Salsa Man is a 26 feet tall sculpture created by the late actor Dennis Hopper. The Carnegie Center for the Arts and the Dodge City Area Arts Council accepted the donation from the Dennis Hopper Art Trust on April 15, 2013.

3rd Ave. and Vine.

Year-Round

www.visitdodgecity.org

LIBERTY GARDEN

Liberty Garden honors those touched by the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks on America. Dodge City is honored to be the first community in Kansas to have received part of the World Trade Center. On display is steel from Ground Zero, a piece of the Pentagon’s limestone, and sandstone from the hemlock grove in Shanksville, Somerset County, Pennsylvania.

71 Second Ave., Wright Park

(620) 225-8170

www.visitdodgecity.org/88/Liberty-Garden

LONGHORN PARK

The park, located at the entrance of Dodge City Regional Airport, features a small herd of longhorn cattle commemorating Dodge City’s role in the cattle drives.

Airport Road and Highway 56/283

(620) 225-8100

www.visitdodgecity.org/77/Longhorn-Park

MATT DILLON SCULPTURE

Dodge City’s newest sculpture is of the James Arness Gunsmoke character, Matt Dillon. The bronze sculpture is located in front of the Visitor Information Center and stands 6’7” tall, the same height of Arness.

400 W. Wyatt Earp Blvd.

Year-Round

www.visitdodgecity.org/314/Dodge-City-Trail-of-Fame

MEXICAN VILLAGE STORYBOARD

Located between the Santa Fe Depot and Central Station Bar & Grill on east Wyatt Earp Blvd, is a storyboard commemorating a Village within Dodge City.

100 E. Wyatt Earp Blvd.

Year-Round

www.visitdodgecity.org/461/Other-Sites-of-Interest

SANTA FE TRAIL TRACKS

These tracks of the original wagon trail, used by pioneers from 1821 to 1872, are 9 miles west of town. The area is listed on the National Register of Historic Sites and contains the largest continuous stretch of clearly defined tracks along the trail’s entire route.

West Highway 50/400, 9 miles west of Dodge City

(620) 227-8188

SOUTHWEST KANSAS VETERANS MEMORIAL

Located outside of the VFW, this is the only Veterans Memorial containing both armed forces and reservists.

909 13th Ave.

(620) 225-7081

STAN HERD MURALS

Stan Herd was born in Protection, KS, in 1950. From an early age, he was interested in drawing and portraying life in rural America. He attended Wichita State University on an Art scholarship. After college, Herd returned to his agricultural roots by pioneering an art form called Crop Art. Along with the attention Herd has received for his Crop Art, he has been recognized for his mural works throughout the United States. Some of Herd’s murals can be seen throughout the community at the First National Bank Building, National Beef Packing Plant, and in the pocket park near La Salsa Man.

619 Second Ave.; 2000 E. Trail St.; 3rd & Vine

www.stanherdarts.com

WYATT EARP SCULPTURE

An eight-foot bronze sculpture of the famous Dodge City Lawman is the centerpiece of the Trail of Fame.

Central Ave. & Wyatt Earp Blvd.

Year-Round

http://visitdodgecity.org/314/Dodge-City-Trail-of-Fame

Who We Are:

We are classified as a destination marketing organization, working within a budget that is set by the City Commission.

We serve the citizens of Dodge City as part of the City of Dodge City’s plan for economic improvement. We serve the attractions, lodging, restaurants, and businesses that benefit from the influx of visitors. We also serve the visitors to our area by providing current information at the Visitor Information Center, in the form of brochures and handouts, as well as information on our website and social media. Internally, we provide an enjoyable experience at the Visitor Information Center, and also when visitors ride the Historic Trolley Tour. We serve the bus tour operators and conventioneers and other groups that come to Dodge City looking for excellent services during their visit. We serve as a liaison to the visitors to aid with concerns and complications with their stay, while they are in Dodge City.

Our target market is the traveler from 100 miles and further away.

What We Do:

The Dodge City Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB) offers a variety of services for the visitor in the community. The Dodge City Visitor Information Center and Dodge City Historic Trolley are operated by the CVB. We are responsible for visitors’ guides, city maps, various publications, and marketing of the community through all mediums. The CVB coordinates assistance for large conferences, small meetings, weddings, reunions, buses, and special groups, and offers welcome packets and aid with community resources and planning for groups of that nature. Grants are also available through the CVB for marketing and printing projects.

Our webpage, www.visitdodgecity.org, offers access to materials and information about our community services, daily events, attractions, restaurants, lodging, and additional CVB and Dodge City visitor information.

Working to form partnerships with the community, we serve the public to make Dodge City the best place to be.

Our Mission:

To bring convention and travel business into Dodge City, by promoting Dodge City and area resources and assets to meeting planners, group tour operators, travel writers, and prospective tourist.

Advisory Board:

Board members recommend methods to implement the Convention and Visitors Bureau’s mission of promoting Dodge City and the area’s resources and assets to bring convention and travel business to Dodge City.

The Board meets monthly and consists of seven members appointed by the City Commission serving three-year staggered terms: (3) representing motel/restaurant/hospitality; (1) representing local attractions; and (3) members-at-large. The Board also includes six permanent representatives from: Boot Hill Museum; Boot Hill Casino & Resort; Dodge City Area Chamber of Commerce; Dodge City Ford County Development Corporation; United Wireless Arena/Conference Center; and Western State Bank Expo Center.

STAFF Members:

Megan Welsh, Manager

Robin Bailey, Tourism Coordinator

Justin Wilson, Marketing Coordinator

Rachel Fansler, Visitor Information Center

The Convention and Visitors Bureau is solely funded by 6% of the transient guest tax collected by lodging properties within the city limits of Dodge City.

The Dodge City/Ford County Development Corporation, a non-profit organization, works in a joint effort between the City of Dodge City, Ford County and a number of private businesses to continue to grow and develop new businesses to promote the socio-economic viability of the region.

Dodge City is home to two industrial parks, the Dodge City Industrial Park and the Dodge City Business Park. The Dodge City Industrial Park is a 240-acre park, zoned for heavy industrial, which is located on the east side of Dodge City. Frito-Lay, Bell & Carlson, FedEx, a new 217,000 sq. ft FedEx Distribution Center, Curtis Machine and Dodge City Municipal Services are currently located in the Industrial Park. The Dodge City Business Park is an industrial development located on the northwest corner of Hwy 56 and 14th Avenue in the southern part of Dodge City. Zoned as light industrial, the park has a total of 285 acres platted into five-acre sections. An Army Reserve facility is located on 10 acres of the Business Park and a new building was just completed by Boot Hill Distillery. Both parks have full access to utilities including water, natural gas and electricity.

Dodge City is home to the world’s largest beef processing industry, including Cargill and National Beef. A new addition to this industry includes Nor-Am Cold Storage Logistics that opened in October 2020. In early 2021 Hilmar Cheese announced Dodge City as their next location and will be opening in 2024. They are currently under construction of this facility, located on 144 acres on the south edge of town. Hilmar will bring in several additional dairies and dairy related industries as well. Ford County is also home to several major wind farms and that development continues to grow with both additional wind farms and transmission projects under consideration.

As the development program continues to grow in the area, several other major projects have been completed, that are helping to make Dodge City the entertainment capital of Western Kansas. The United Wireless Arena & Boot Hill Casino and Resort Conference Center hosts concerts, rodeos, sporting events and trade shows. It’s the largest arena in Kansas west of Wichita. Dodge City is also home to Boot Hill Casino and Resort, an upscale destination which is the only casino in the western half of the state and has a Hampton Inn & Suites situated next door. Also, in our community is the Western State Bank Expo Center. The 179,000-square-foot facility hosts the annual 3i Show and offers many opportunities for agricultural shows and a variety of events. Also recently opened is our Long Branch Lagoon Water Park, which has over 27,000 square feet of aquatic fun and excitement. Just recently completed is a major expansion of the Boot Hill Museum. This new exhibit area brings many new and exciting attractions to Dodge City.

Main Street Dodge City is a nonprofit organization focusing on revitalizing and restoring Dodge City’s historic downtown district. The local organization works hard to bring Dodge City’s downtown area back to life by focusing on four key areas: promotion, design, organization and economic restructuring. By taking a holistic approach to downtown development, the organization is able to work with the full spectrum of interrelated issues that affects the commercial district. Main Street Dodge City strives towards reviving the downtown area back to a place that citizens are proud to call the heart of their community.

The Dodge City STAR Bond Project Plan for the Heritage District is currently under development. The Heritage District contains approximately 166 acres in historic downtown Dodge City and is anchored by the Boot Hill Museum and Front Street located north of Wyatt Earp Boulevard, and exciting redevelopment opportunities south of Wyatt Earp Boulevard and west of Second Ave. in and around Wright Park. The developments included in the STAR Bond Heritage District Plan include family-oriented/tourism attractions; themed regional water park/aquatics facility; soccer field; new hotel; new recreational vehicle (RV) park; and a new restaurant with a banquet space, which is in the historic Guymon Petro building. The Downtown Street Scape Project is in the construction phase, scheduled to be complete in 2024. This will be a 14-million-dollar project updating the aging infrastructure, increasing pedestrian safety through walkability of the area, and boosting economic development by revitalizing the spirit of the district.

The Dodge City/Ford County Development houses an Outreach Center Consultant in Dodge City/Ford County Office of the Kansas Small Business Development Center. They provide business consulting, training, and assistance to emerging and existing Southwest Kansas businesses in developing business and marketing plans and conduct seminars to meet small business training needs. The Dodge City/Ford County Development Corporation also hosts the Southwest Kansas Regional Kansas Department of Commerce Business Development office.

With the relatively low unemployment rate and ongoing announcements of new businesses and opportunities, the Development Corp. has been actively addressing the two biggest issues facing this growing community: workforce recruitment and housing. The Development Corp. also host the www.dodgecityhasjobs.com website. The site was created as a workforce recruitment tool for all businesses in Ford County to utilize. In addition to the website, the Development Corp. is continuously promoting the businesses of Dodge City and Ford County at job fairs across the region. With newly added employment opportunities, the availability of housing has also been made a priority.

The Rural Education and Workforce Alliance (REWA) was recently created to focus on bringing higher education opportunities to Southwest Kansas through partnerships with the regional community colleges, businesses, government and universities. The main campus is in Dodge City and satellite classrooms are in Elkhart, Tribune, Scott City, Jetmore, and St. John. The degree and certification programs offered are designed to meet the workforce needs of the region and compliment the work of the community colleges.

CHAD (Community Housing Association of Dodge City) is a non-profit 501 (c)(3) organization dedicated to addressing the housing needs in the community. In addition to working with housing developers, CHAD has implemented programs such as the Rural Housing Incentive District (RHID) and the Neighborhood Revitalization Program (NRP) to encourage development. These incentives help developers to build both single and multi-family housing of all income ranges. Another vital tool in placing employees into housing has been the implementation of the www.dodgecityhousing.com website. Through the help and support of the community, the Dodge City/Ford County Development Corp. is continuing to make Dodge City and Ford County a safer, more enjoyable and more prosperous place to live and do business.

EMPLOYER # EMPLOYEES

National Beef 3,000

Cargill Meat Solutions 2,000

USD #443 1,377

Ford County Government 445 Full Time, 93 Part Time

Wal-Mart Super Center 320

Boot Hill Casino & Resort 250

Dodge City Community College 220

City of Dodge City 210

St. Catherine Dodge City 189

Dillon’s Super Store 160

Roto-Mix. 109

Nor-Am Cold Storage 105

Crustbuster/Speed King 100

Kansas Soldiers Home 90

Broce Mfg. .50

COMMUNITY

DISPATCH FORD COUNTY EMERGENCY

EMERGENCY 911

COMMUNICATIONS 620-227-4646

1506 W. Comanche St. • Dodge City, KS 67801

www.fordcounty.net/149/911-Communications

FIRE AND EMS

DODGE CITY FIRE DEPARTMENT OFFICE 620-225-8187

201 Soule St • Dodge City, KS 67801

www.dodgecity.org/65/Fire-Department

FORD COUNTY FIRE & EMS 620-227-4638

10996 113 Rd • Dodge City, KS 67801

www.fordcounty.net/228/Fire-EMS

LAW ENFORCEMENT

DODGE CITY POLICE DEPARTMENT 620-225-8126

110 W. Spruce St • www.dodgecity.org/69/Police-Department

FORD COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE Admin: 620-227-4501

Detention: 620-227-4508

11311 E. Comanche • Dodge City, KS 67801

www.fordcounty.net/268/Sheriffs-Office

INFORMATION

DODGE CITY AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 620-227-3119

101 E. Wyatt Earp Blvd • www.dodgechamber.com/

DODGE CITY CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU

VISITORS CENTER 620-225-8186

400 W. Wyatt Earp Blvd • www.visitdodgecity.org/

DODGE CITY DAILY GLOBE 620-471-8001

2002 1st Ave • www.dodgeglobe.com/

DODGE CITY/FORD COUNTY ECONOMIC

DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION 620-227-9501

101 E. Wyatt Earp Blvd • www.dodgedev.org/

CAR RENTALS

LEWIS TOYOTA OF DODGE CITY 620-225-2210

901 S Second Ave

HERTZ AT THE DODGE CITY REGIONAL AIRPORT 620-225-4001

100 Airport Rd

GOVERNMENT

CITY OF DODGE CITY, CITY HALL 620-225-8100

806 N. Second Ave

CITY OF DODGE CITY, MUNICIPAL COURT 620-225-8107

806 N. Second Ave

FORD COUNTY GOVERNMENT CENTER 620-227-4670

100 Gunsmoke St

FORD COUNTY DISTRICT COURT 620-227-4609

101 W Spruce St

SOCIAL SECURITY ADMINISTRATION 877-694-5494

2204 Summerlon Cir.

HOSPITAL

St. Catherine Hospital – Dodge City 620-225-8400

3001 Avenue A

LIBRARIES

DODGE CITY PUBLIC LIBRARY .....................................620-225-0248

1001 N. Second Ave

DODGE CITY COMMUNITY COLLEGE 620-225-1321

2501 N 14th Ave

KANSAS GENEALOGICAL & D.A.R. LIBRARY 620-225-1951

Village Square Mall

KANSAS HERITAGE CENTER 620-227-1616

1001 N. Second Ave

EVENT FACILITIES

BOOT HILL CASINO & RESORT CONFERENCE CENTER &

UNITED WIRELESS ARENA 620-371-7390

4100 W. Comanche • www.unitedwirelessarena.com

HOOVER PAVILION 620-225-8160

71 Second Ave • www.dodgecity.org/104/Hoover-Pavilion

WESTERN STATE BANK EXPO CENTER 620-338-8284

11333 Highway 283 • www.westernstatebankexpo.com

PARKS, SPORTS COMPLEXES

DODGE CITY PARKS AND FACILITIES 620-225-8160

806 N. Second Ave • www.dodgecity.org/68/Parks-Facilities

Cavalier Field 240 San Jose Drive

Legends Park 600 Ross Blvd

St. Mary’s Sports Complex 250 San Jose Drive

Thurow Park 600 Ave L

Youth Complex 900 Wright St

Wright Park Zoo 71 Second Ave

Long Branch Lagoon Water Park 71 Second Ave

GOLF

DODGE CITY COUNTRY CLUB 620-225-5231

1900 Country Club Drive • www.countryclubdodgecity.com/

MARIAH HILLS GOLF COURSE 620-225-8182

1800 Matt Down Lane • www.mariahhillsgolf.com

POSTAL COURIER

UNITED STATES POST OFFICE .620-227-8618

700 Central Ave

FEDEX DROP BOXES

Dollar General 701 S. 2nd Ave

Flying J 2524 E. Wyatt Earp Blvd

Military Plaza 100 Military Ave

Walgreens 1801 N. 14th Ave

Village Square Mall 2601 Central Ave

UPS DROP BOXES

ASCS 900 W. Frontview St.

UPS 2601 E. Wyatt Earp Blvd

First National Bank 2307 Central Ave

Flying J 2524 E. Wyatt Earp Blvd

Loves 2505 E. Trail St

Military Plaza 100 Military Ave

Village Square Mall 2601 Central Ave

Waters True Value 310 W. Frontview St.

TRANSPORTATION

BUS

Dodge City Public Transportation 620-225-8119

Fixed Bus Route and Demand Service

www.dodgecity.org/727/Public-Transportation

TAXI

Alfa Taxi 620-253-3478

General Taxi 620-255-0850

Guerrero Ride Share 620-339-6223

Leos Taxi 620-338-2416

Medina Taxi 620-255-9086

No Limit Taxi 620-253-2556

Quality Cab 620-275-8294

Stagecoach Taxi 620-225-7433

United Taxi 620-561-0472

Zuniga Taxi 620-682-3283

TRAIN

Amtrak 1-800-USA-RAIL

www.amtrak.com

WEATHER

NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE 620-227-3311

TIME & TEMPERATURE 620-225-9600

Bright Beginnings Early Childhood Center (Pre-K)

200 W Comanche St., Suite A

620-371-1220

Beeson Elementary School (K-5)

1700 W. Beeson Road

620-471-2113

Central Elementary School (K-5)

1100 Central Ave.

620-471-2104

Linn Elementary School (K-5)

1900 W. Linn St.

620-471-2114

Miller Elementary School (K-5)

1100 Avenue G

620-471-2102

Northwest Elementary School

(K-5)

2100 Sixth Ave.

620-471-2115

Ross Elementary School (K-5)

3001 Sixth Ave.

620-471-2103

Soule Elementary School (K-5)

401 Soule St.

620-471-2116

Sunnyside Elementary School (K-5)

511 Sunnyside Ave.

620-471-2112

Rise Wilroads Campus (1-12)

11558 E. Main Road

620-471-2101

Comanche Middle School

(6-7-8)

1601 First Ave.

620-371-1100

Dodge City Middle School

(6-7-8)

2000 Sixth Ave.

620-471-2100

Dodge City High School (9-12)

2201 W. Ross Blvd.

620-471-2110

Alternative Education Stride Program

200 W. Comanche St., Suite B

620-371-1275

Rialto Way Program & Therapeutic Education Center

300 W. Comanche Ave. Building A

620-371-1291

Dodge City Adult Education Center

2601 Central Ave., Suite V3

Village Square Mall

620-225-5239

First Stop Enrollment

2112 First Ave. Room 100

620-471-2117

Sacred Heart Cathedral School

905 Central Ave.

Lynee Habiger, Principal

Lynee.habiger@dcshcs.com

620-227-6532

www.dodgecitycathedral.com/school

Sacred Heart Cathedral School seeks to provide a Catholic learning environment conducive to educating the whole child – spiritually, intellectually, psychologically, socially and physically. It draws on the wealth of its Catholic and cultural heritage to offer a program of quality education, which combines intellectual achievement with progress in the knowledge, love and service of God and neighbor. Sacred Heart Cathedral School serves Catholic elementary school children of Dodge City in Grades Kindergarten through eighth grade, as well as pre-k. All available resources are utilized to challenge the gifted and to supply the needs of children with learning disabilities and emotional problems. Special programs and services are offered in cooperation with USD 443 and USD 613.

Unified School District 443

District Office & Learning Center

2112 1st Avenue

620-317-1000

www.usd443.org

See next page for more information

Colleges

Dodge City Community College

2501 N. 14th Ave.

620-225-1321

www.dc3.edu

Dodge City Community College serves a nine-county area of roughly 9,000 square miles and offers outreach programs in Ashland, Bucklin, Cimarron, Coldwater, Fowler, Ingalls, Jetmore, Kinsley, Minneola, Montezuma, Ness City, Ransom and Spearville. DCCC typically enrolls about 1,800 students every semester and offers associate’s degrees in arts, science, applied science and general studies, and one-year certificates and Associates degree programs in 10 technical programs. The college also offers customized training to area businesses and industry, and four-year degree programming and online classes.

Newman University Western Center

236 San Jose Drive, Suite 39

620-227-9616

www.newmanu.edu

Founded in 1933, Newman University is grounded in Catholic values and traditions, yet is respectful of all faith traditions. Its main campus is in Wichita, and it has outreach sites in Southeast Kansas, Western Kansas, Tulsa and Oklahoma City. The Newman University School of Education offers an accelerated elementary education K-6 degree with face to face instruction in Dodge City and numerous other communities across Kansas. Newman University offers master’s degrees in Education through a flexible delivery model throughout Kansas. Additionally, Newman University offers an online business degree.

Dodge City Public Schools welcomes the community of Dodge City to the newly renovated Memorial Stadium. In 1967, the Red Demons battled the Liberal Redskins in the inaugural game at Memorial Stadium. The Demons prevailed (20-13) and began a half-century dominance in football that remains a Dodge City tradition. Over 260 games have been played since that first game and the 2023 season marks Team #123 for Red Demon Football.

In the summer, and early fall of 1966, the current location of the football field was rebuilt and grass planted. During the school year of 1966-67, the USD 443 Board of Education authorized the construction of a 5,000 seat football stadium, with an appropriate football field lighting system. These contracts were let as of November 18, 1966. The contracts totaled - $367,209.00 for the entire project. The current renovation project began in the spring of 2021 with the mission of making Memorial Stadium highly accessible to those with mobility issues, modernizing the technology needs of a modern facility, and updating the infrastructure. The cost of the entire renovation has been just over $10M dollars.

Memorial Stadium is not just the home to Red Demon Football – and Friday Nights in Dodge City are not just about the players on the field. We are proud to continue the tradition of showcasing our outstanding Marching Band – The Pride of Southwest Kansas, Drill Team, and Cheer squads to our community.

The 2-time State Championship Red Demon Soccer program also calls Memorial Stadium home. The Western Athletic Conference Track & Field Championships are held here every May. The KSHSAA State 6-man State Championships have been hosted at the Stadium for the past eight Novembers; and Dodge City Community College continues to host home football and soccer games at the venue.

Memorial Stadium is now once again one of the top high school facilities in the state of Kansas.

The final phase of improvements will provide outstanding access to our fans, students, coaches, media, and community - and will be the envy of those visiting our community. The Memorial Stadium project has been yet another reminder of the community support for our athletes, coaches, and extra-curricular programs!

Thank you Dodge City!

When students returned to Dodge City Community College (DC3) for the fall 2022 semester, they were greeted with new directional and building signage throughout the campus.

“Signage is the first thing prospective students see when stepping foot on campus for a college tour,” Christina Haselhorst, DC3 Director of Foundation and Community Relations, said. “And new directional signage helps new students, staff, and campus visitors find the exact buildings they need. It is a critical feature on most college campuses that DC3 was lacking.”

Haselhorst, who spearheaded the project, said she thinks outdated and inadequate signage can cause prospective students who are touring a college campus to question the quality of the education and college experience that is provided there. It can also be a potential safety issue.

“As the college moved forward through the years with updated, unified branding, the physical campus did not follow,” she said. “Old campus signage was confusing, outdated, incomplete, or nonexistent, which made the campus hard to navigate for first-time visitors.”

In addition to the new colorful directional signage around campus, the building signage is also getting an upgrade. The classic raised white, all-caps san serif-style lettering, which was mounted on the I-beams of the original 1970 campus buildings, is being retained. And this design element also has been repeated on many of the ones built later on that were never labeled in this manner.

“This project allows for us to give a nod to the past with new lettering that matches the old aesthetic on the buildings, while also providing up-to-date, easy-to-read directional signage,” Haselhorst said. “Our goal is to provide a campus that provides signs that are informational and welcoming, well-lit at night, and that enhance the identity of Dodge City Community College.”

Throughout the course of the project, Haselhorst said four of the campus buildings were also officially renamed. Those buildings are Allied Health, the Learning Resource Center (LRC), Physical Education (PE), and Sciences. The new names are the Communications Center, Library, Athletics, and Science & Math, respectively.

“A fifth building, the Little Theatre, did not actually change names,” she said. “However, previously it had been labeled as only ‘Theatre.’ The lettering now reads ‘Little Theatre.’ ”

Regarding the design of the new directional signage, Haselhorst said it was actually chosen by DC3 students.

“After receiving many quality bids for this project, three companies stood out,” Haselhorst said. “At the recommendation of the DC3 Board of Trustees, a random survey was conducted with the current students during the spring 2022 semester.”

Nearly 100 students participated in the survey, and they overwhelmingly chose the designs of Miracle Signs, of Wichita, Kan. She said student feedback ranged from: ‘Solid!’ to ‘This is so cool!’ to ‘I can’t wait to see them finished!’

The winning design by Miracle Signs features white lettering, gold directional arrows and the college’s academic logo. In addition to the bright, vibrant designs, most of them also will be illuminated with LED lights at night.

All in all, the signage project cost $169,315, which was paid for with Higher Education Emergency Relief Fund (HEERF) and DC3 Marketing Department funds. This amount includes all directional signs and building lettering, Haselhorst said. And in order to light a majority of the signs, an additional $52,900 of HEERF aide also was utilized for the necessary electrical work, which was coordinated through the college’s Maintenance Department.

Jared Stevens, DC3 Director of Facilities and Operations, said he is proud of his Maintenance crew and how each one of them have helped in the various stages of the campus signage project.

“I could not have done any of this without my Assistant Director Hunter Edwards, Maintenance Foreman Josh Pankratz, and the rest of my team,” he said.

The signage installation, which started on Aug. 4, 2022, was officially wrapped up in December.

About Dodge City Community College

Founded in 1935, DC3 is a comprehensive community college, operating with an open-door admissions policy within Ford County, Kan., in an eight-county service region. The college is governed by a locally elected Board of Trustees and is responsible to the community it serves and to the State of Kansas. For more information about DC3 and its academic programs, please visit dc3.edu.

By Lance Ziesch

DC3 Assistant Director of
Marketing and Community Relations

HOSPITAL

Although Dodge City residents may be used to calling it Centura St. Catherine Hospital- Dodge City, as of August 2023, the hospital is operating under a new name: CommonSpirit St. Catherine Hospital- Dodge City. CommonSpirit Health, one of the largest faith-based, non-profit health systems in the U.S., is now directly managing 20 hospitals in Colorado, Kansas, and Utah, that had previously been managed by Centura Health, including St. Catherine Hospitals.

While our name is different, our commitment to delivering our communities with the highest quality of care remains the same and is at the heart of everything we do. We continue to provide patients with the same compassionate care from the people they know and trust. This change allows us to remain devoted to advancing health for all people and guaranteeing those most vulnerable have equal access to the care they need.

As a Joint Commission accredited, 99-bed hospital, St. Catherine Hospital- Dodge City serves as a regional referral center for southwest Kansas. Our emergency rooms are staffed 24/7 with emergency physicians, nurses, and staff who are trained in providing care for the most serious injuries and illnesses. We continue to bring in service lines and specialists to keep care local and provide telehealth services so that it is easier for patients to access healthcare. With a Birth Center that welcomes over 700 babies each year, expecting families can find comfort during their labor and delivery process as well as recovery and postpartum care all in the same private room. Our providers combine patient-centered care with modern technology and medical expertise to offer a robust range of services including surgeries, orthopedics, occupational health, outpatient therapy, and more. Since our origin, we have been devoted to ensuring our neighbors do not need to travel far to receive the care that they need, and it’s a commitment we will continue to prioritize.

As part of CommonSpirit Health, we look forward to continuing to provide Dodge City and Western Kansas with the highest quality of care. Building healthier communities in the places we call home will remain at our core and we are proud to continue our legacy of serving western Kansans.