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In May 2024, The Wichita Public School District (USD 259) turned off the lights at Payne Elementary, for the final time. Today, the former school is being transformed into The Commons, brand-new community hub focused on bringing people together with food and connection bringing health and well-being. 

 

HOPE, A NEW CHAPTER.

Outside, the playgrounds will transform into an urban gardens and gathering space for community and educational events. The interior will become a vibrant space for full-human health and professional growth. 

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Tying the whole vision together will be a public marketplace and eatery, creating a lively spot where everything grown outside and whipped up inside can be shared directly with the neighborhood. This is more than a building project. It’s reimagining what is possible when Wichitans create meaningful connections.

 

Come join us as we transform a shuttered school into a space full of energy, activity, opportunity, and growth. Once again, The doors of 1601 S. Edwards Avenue are open for learning and growth.