TOPEKA, Kan. (WIBW) – New developments could be coming to Manhattan, while the area continues building on recent additions.
Jason Smith, CEO of the Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce, visited Eye on NE Kansas to highlight what’s in store.
Smith said a big focus is the EDGE District. The city is supporting the Kansas State University Foundation in the planned development along Kimball Ave., across from Bill Snyder Family Stadium.
Smith said this is will be the third phase of EDGE District development. Overall plans centered on construction of the National Bio and Agri Defense Facility, or NBAF.
Even though the USDA cut the ribbon on the national biosecurity lab nearly two years ago and had has had some 250 workers on site, the federal agency recently announced NBAF would “officially” open in January 2027. Smith explained that is when scientists and animals will be fully moved in and engaged at the facility. It also means they expect to hire another 150 workers this year.
Watch the interview to hear what Smith had to say about the EDGE District, overall job growth in Manhattan, and continued opportunities from NBAF.
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