Commerce Seeking Support to Identify Vacant Buildings for Redevelopment

TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland today announced that the Department of Commerce is launching an initiative to identify vacant, abandoned or underutilized buildings suitable for redevelopment into housing units. Local leaders, community organizations and property owners can assist in this effort by submitting information about buildings in their area that could be considered for conversion.

“Our communities are rich with structures that have strong bones and the potential for future use,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “Connecting private developers to available vacant buildings is an easy way to address the prevalent housing crisis being felt throughout the country — while also preserving the architectural character and history of our Kansas communities.”

The Department of Commerce will compile submissions into a statewide list that will be shared with developers, contractors and housing partners seeking adaptive reuse opportunities. Examples of potential buildings include former schools, nursing homes, hospitals, churches, detention facilities — or other structures that might be vacant but well-positioned for conversion into residential units.

“Through this new effort, we’re able to help communities in a proactive way, attracting investments and meeting specific local housing needs,” Assistant Secretary of Commerce Matt Godinez said. “There are a lot of unique buildings that are full of history and even more potential — and what better way to activate these unique community assets than by turning these beloved buildings into new housing opportunities for Kansans?”

Communities and property owners interested in participating are encouraged to submit building or property details here.

For more information about the initiative, contact Kerri Falletti at Kerri.Falletti@ks.gov.

About the Kansas Department of Commerce:

As the state’s lead economic development agency, the Kansas Department of Commerce strives to empower individuals, businesses and communities to achieve prosperity in Kansas. Commerce accomplishes its mission by developing relationships with corporations, site location consultants and stakeholders in Kansas, the nation and world. Our strong partnerships allow us to help create an environment for existing Kansas businesses to grow and foster an innovative, competitive landscape for new businesses. Through Commerce’s project successes, Kansas was awarded Area Development Magazine’s prestigious Gold Shovel award in 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024, and was awarded the 2021 and 2022 Governor’s Cup by Site Selection Magazine.

About the Quality Places Division:  

Established in 2024, the Quality Places Division at the Kansas Department of Commerce exists to improve quality of life in communities across the state through various programs and services. The Kansas Department of Commerce understands the immense role played by strong communities in economic development and prioritizes investments in people and communities as major contributors to the overall strength of the Kansas economy. To learn more, click here.

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