WICHITA, Kan. (KWCH) – As Wichita heads into 2026, the city stands at a crossroads of opportunity and questions. From major corporate moves to a voter-approved sales tax proposal in March, the year ahead could reshape the city’s economic image and resources. Dr. Larry Straub, associate professor of management at Newman University, says Wichita has reason for cautious optimism.
“I think this area just has a lot going for it, I think it’s one of the best-kept secrets in the country,” Straub said. “And, you know, I don’t mind keeping it that way selfishly a little bit that way we don’t have runaway growth and some of the problems that come along with that. I think that economically I’m hopeful that Boeing acquiring and re-integrating Spirit Aerosystems is going to be a good thing for the economy.”
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