McPherson Positions for Industrial Growth Following Development Study

MCPHERSON, Kan. —A $10,000 grant from the McPherson County Community Foundation has enabled the McPherson Industrial Development Company to conduct a comprehensive assessment of the city's readiness for industrial expansion. The study, performed by nationally recognized site selection firm Global Location Strategies, revealed that McPherson boasts a manufacturing location quotient three times the national average and highly competitive industrial electricity rates at just 5.3 cents per kilowatt-hour. Principal Sarah White's evaluation included tours of industrial parks and stakeholder meetings, ultimately affirming the community's industrial strengths while identifying workforce availability and community livability as primary challenges.

In response to these findings, McPherson has mobilized a multi-pronged approach to enhance its competitiveness. MIDC has applied for a $500,000 workforce development grant to establish a high school-to-career pipeline, while local educational institutions are expanding technical programs—McPherson College will launch a mechanical engineering program in 2026, and Hutchinson Community College's McPherson Center will offer new technical training this fall. The community is also addressing critical support infrastructure, with 24 new low-income senior housing units recently completed, pattern zoning implemented to encourage infill development, and over $1 million secured for expanding childcare access through partnerships between the City, YMCA, and the MCCF Childcare Task Force. "The GLS report provided the clarity and urgency needed to align efforts across the community," said MIDC Executive Director Kasi Morales, noting that a strategic plan is now in development to ensure McPherson remains competitive and investment-ready.

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