Construction, Storm Alerts and St. Patrick’s Festivities Lead Wichita Headlines
Wichita, KS – March 17, 2026 – Construction ramps up at Wichita State, storm chances return to Sedgwick County, and St. Patrick’s celebrations pack downtown venues.
It’s been a full few days across Wichita, with campus construction activity, spring storm alerts and a lively St. Patrick’s Day weekend all making headlines.
Construction and Campus Testing at WSU
Wichita State University began installing fencing Monday for a new softball team operations building near Wilkins Stadium. The project marks the next step in upgrades for the athletics program and will temporarily affect parking south of the stadium.
Faculty and staff who typically use those spaces are being directed to alternate lots during construction. The project is expected to continue into early 2027, meaning the adjustments will be in place for an extended period.
At the same time, WSU has launched its annual fire sprinkler inspections across campus buildings. Testing began March 16 and is scheduled to run for about two weeks. During this period, fire alarms may sound briefly as systems are checked. University officials say no evacuations are required during the inspections.
Storm Season Ramps Up
Beyond campus, Sedgwick County emergency officials are keeping a close watch on the forecast. A recent alert highlighted the potential for strong to severe storms in the region this week as spring weather patterns become more active.
Residents are encouraged to review their safety plans, ensure they have multiple ways to receive weather warnings and stay alert as conditions develop. This time of year often brings rapidly changing forecasts, making preparation especially important.
St. Patrick’s Weekend Energizes Downtown
While officials monitored the skies, thousands of Wichitans took to the streets in green for St. Patrick’s celebrations over the weekend.
The annual Wichita St. Patrick’s Day 5K brought runners downtown Sunday morning, many dressed in festive attire. The event drew participants of all ages and added an energetic start to the day.
On Saturday, a St. Patrick’s weekend bar crawl along East Douglas filled local venues throughout the afternoon and evening. Bars and restaurants reported strong turnout as residents and visitors celebrated ahead of the March 17 holiday.
City leaders say events like these provide a welcome boost for local businesses and signal the start of a busy spring season filled with outdoor gatherings, races and festivals.
From construction zones on campus to crowded sidewalks downtown, it’s a clear sign that Wichita is moving into an active stretch of the year.
Sources
- https://news.wichita.edu/wsu-newsletter/wsu-today-wednesday-march-11-2026/
- https://ssc.sedgwickcounty.org/EmergencyManagementLog/attachment.ashx?attachmentId=368
- https://findarace.com/us/events/wichita-st-patricks-day-5k/15th-march-2026
- https://www.visitwichita.com/event/wichita-st-patricks-day-weekend-bar-crawl-2026/45833/
