The Olathe City Council convened on June 17, 2025, to discuss significant developments regarding the proposed downtown parking garage project. The meeting focused on the ongoing efforts to address parking shortages in the downtown area, particularly north of Santa Fe, as identified in a study conducted by Walker Consulting.

The council reviewed the project's timeline, noting that the initial proposal for the parking garage was included in the 2024-2028 Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) with an estimated cost of $30 million. Following further analysis, the projected cost was revised to approximately $22.5 million, which includes adjustments for inflation and additional project expenses. The garage is expected to provide around 380 total parking spaces, with 225 net new spots available upon completion.

A key development discussed was the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) approved by the county on June 5, which includes an $11 million cost-sharing agreement for the project. The council emphasized the importance of maximizing parking capacity and ensuring compliance with ADA requirements, which were highlighted as a significant concern by the county.

During the meeting, council members expressed their support for the project but raised questions regarding the adequacy of the proposed parking spaces in relation to the current deficit of approximately 240 spots in the downtown area. Concerns were voiced about whether the new garage would sufficiently meet the anticipated demand, especially with ongoing developments in the area.

The council clarified that the parking deficit identified in the Walker Consulting study is projected over a ten-year period, taking into account future developments and increased usage of downtown facilities, including the county courthouse. The council plans to issue a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) in early July, with the goal of awarding a contract by October 2025.

The anticipated timeline for the project aims for a mid-summer 2027 opening, contingent on the successful completion of the design and build process. The council committed to regular meetings with both city and county staff throughout the project to ensure transparency and address any concerns that may arise.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the city's commitment to enhancing downtown parking infrastructure while addressing community concerns about the adequacy of the proposed solutions. The council's ongoing discussions will shape the future of parking in Olathe as the city continues to grow and develop.