The Garden City FCEDC Board of Directors meeting on December 18, 2024, highlighted significant developments in local economic activity, particularly in air travel and retail sectors.

During the meeting, members discussed the record-breaking passenger traffic at the Garden City Regional Airport, which is projected to exceed 30,000 by the end of the year. This surge is attributed to a combination of larger aircraft and a robust national travel trend. Notably, the airport has seen a consistent increase in passengers, with Dallas being the most common destination for travelers. Comparatively, other regional airports, including Liberal, Dodge, and Hayes, have also reported strong performance, indicating a healthy regional travel market.

In retail news, Black Friday 2024 marked a historic peak for Garden City Plaza, with 8,649 visitors, a 27% increase from 2018. The downtown Christmas parade also set records, attracting nearly 13,000 attendees, a 12% rise from the previous year. Additionally, Shulman Crossing experienced its busiest day ever, with 21,469 visitors, reflecting a 10% increase over last year's Black Friday.

The discussions underscored a positive economic outlook for Garden City, driven by increased consumer activity and travel. The board expressed optimism about the ongoing growth and the potential for further developments in the local economy. As the year concludes, these trends suggest a vibrant community poised for continued success in 2025.