AGP Executive Report

TSA “Gateside” for PreCheck: TSA is bringing back gate access for some non-flyers at 13 airports, including Wichita (ICT) and Kansas City-area travelers via DFW, letting approved visitors pass security to meet loved ones and wait at the gate—no boarding pass needed, but ID and PreCheck/known traveler screening apply. Kansas Travel & Community: Johnson County leaders are planning the state’s first “family justice center,” aiming to bundle services for families facing domestic violence and sexual assault under one roof. Local Safety: A three-vehicle crash in rural Barton County sent two drivers to hospitals in Wichita and Great Bend. Kansas Sports Spotlight: Hays native Dylan Dreiling returned to Kansas to play at Equity Bank Park in Wichita, now a top prospect in the Rangers system. Weather & Travel Impact: Kansas farmers are still feeling the hit from lingering extreme heat, with crop stress and harvest uncertainty affecting agri-tourism plans. Air Travel Reminders: TSA’s program rollout is expanding, but availability varies by airport, so travelers should check before heading out.

Airport Access for Non-Flyers: TSA’s new “Gateside by TSA PreCheck” lets approved visitors (including kids) pass security and reach airport gates at 13 airports, including Wichita’s Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport (ICT). It’s free, requires TSA PreCheck/KTN, and you apply 1–3 days ahead. Local Justice Planning: Johnson County leaders are working toward Kansas’ first “family justice center,” aiming to bring domestic-violence and sexual-assault services under one roof. Boil Water Advisory: Great Bend customers east of U.S. 281 were hit with a boil water advisory after a waterline break caused a pressure loss. Kansas Agritourism & Travel: Barton County barn owners received a state Tourism Office grant to restore a historic limestone barn, building an events space to draw visitors. Family Travel Convenience: The K-10 Connector bus route between Lawrence and Johnson County will keep running through this fall, but long-term funding is still uncertain. Road Safety: A three-vehicle crash in rural Barton County sent two drivers to hospitals with injuries.

TSA & Airport Access: TSA is rolling out “Gateside by TSA PreCheck,” letting eligible non-flyers with TSA PreCheck (or a qualifying Known Traveler Number) apply online to pass security and reach airport gates at 13 airports—good for gate hellos, layovers, and airport dining/shopping. Kansas Tourism & Preservation: Visitors say graffiti is damaging Coronado Heights in Lindsborg, raising fears that permanent writing is harming a historic Kansas landmark. Kansas Travel Disruption: Crews plan an asphalt overlay on U.S. 59 and K-47 in Neosho County starting Sept. 14, with one-lane traffic and delays up to 15 minutes through early November. Local Travel Costs: Kansas City International Airport parking rates rise Sept. 15 for the garage, surface lot, and valet options. Road Trip Budget Pressure: AAA reports record-high Labor Day gas prices, with the national average topping $4 per gallon, driven by global oil concerns. Kansas City Culture: A City Market storefront tied to HyperKC is closing at month’s end, ending nearly a decade of local pride-themed shirts.

TSA Travel Perk: TSA PreCheck is rolling out “Gateside by TSA PreCheck,” letting eligible non-flyers pass security at 13 airports (including Wichita) to meet loved ones at the gate, shop, and dine—free but you must apply online 1–3 days ahead and get approval for a one-day pass. Airport Costs: Kansas City International Airport parking rates are set to rise next week (Sept. 15) for the garage, surface lot, and valet, while economy and some lots stay the same. Kansas Travel & Tourism: Emporia baseball history gets a spotlight as local author Ken Ohm’s “Brown Enough” draws movie interest, tying the town’s past to a new audience. Local Culture: A Kansas City City Market storefront tied to HyperKC’s local-pride shirts is closing at month’s end, a reminder that visitor favorites can change fast. Health Access: LMH Health is joining a new regional alliance (Astra Health) to expand specialty care across Kansas communities. Weather/Outdoors Event: Storm chaser photographer Jim Reed is set to present at the Giants of the Earth Heritage Center in Spring Grove on Sept. 10.

TSA Travel Perk in Kansas: TSA’s new “Gateside by TSA PreCheck” lets eligible PreCheck/Known Traveler Number holders enter select airport terminals without a plane ticket, with Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport (ICT) among the first 13 airports. NFL Travel Watch: Patrick Mahomes’ father, on Texas probation after a third DWI, asked a judge for permission to travel out of state to attend Chiefs games in Kansas City, Las Vegas and Cincinnati. Kansas Sports on the Move: Emporia State Hornets volleyball and football updates keep rolling, including Hornets’ undefeated run at the Sioux Falls Volleyball Classic and a win over Pitt State. Local Community & Tourism Angle: Solomon’s Kansas Sampler Foundation Do-Alogue highlighted how small Kansas towns use existing places—like the community pool—as true “third spaces” to draw visitors and build pride. Camping Fuel Policy: The Trump administration is blocking a California disposable propane canister ban, a reminder that outdoor travel gear rules can shift fast.

TSA Airport Access Update (Kansas): TSA’s new “Gateside by TSA PreCheck” pilot lets eligible PreCheck/Known Traveler Number holders enter participating airports without flying, and Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport (ICT) is included in the initial 13-airport rollout—apply ahead and use an approved ID at PreCheck lanes. Labor Day Travel Costs: AAA reports Americans face the most expensive Labor Day gas prices on record, with the national regular average topping $4. Local Water Alert (Pottawatomie County): KDHE issued a boil water advisory for the Walnut Grove, LLC public water supply near St. George, effective Sept. 7, with one-minute boiling guidance until the risk is resolved. Rural Community Building (Solomon): Kansas Sampler Foundation’s Do-Alogue brought leaders from 13 communities to Solomon to share practical ways to strengthen connection and pride using local “third spaces” like the municipal pool. Kansas Agriculture & Heat: Farmers and schools across the state are adjusting to extreme heat and dry conditions as harvest continues and outdoor schedules shift. Route 66 Travel Talk: A Route 66 centennial segment highlights the Mother Road’s history and the motel revival trend in the Southwest.

Airport Access Update: TSA’s new Gateside by TSA PreCheck lets eligible, non-ticketed visitors pass security at 13 airports (including Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport) to meet arrivals or visit gateside shops/restaurants—apply online at least a day ahead. Travel Safety Watch: A busy Labor Day weather setup across the Plains and Midwest brings strong to severe storms, with lightning risks even after rain eases. Kansas Tourism Angle: Monarch tagging events tied to the University of Kansas’ Monarch Watch continue to draw families—great for fall travel plans. Local Road News: A Wichita-area driver was injured after falling asleep at the wheel in a Russell County I-70 crash. Sports & Travel: The Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport mention also lines up with Kansas City-area game-week travel buzz, while Kansas City Royals’ playoff-position drama adds to the region’s visitor draw.

Airport Access Update (Kansas): TSA is rolling out “Gateside by TSA PreCheck,” letting approved, non-ticketed visitors pass security to meet travelers at the gate or visit airport shops and restaurants—initially including Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport (ICT). Travel Disruption Watch: Southwest added LOT Polish as an international partner, but Southwest.com can’t book those partner itineraries yet. Kansas Tourism & Nature: Kansas-linked science tourism gets a boost from the Monarch Watch-style “Flutter Into Fall” monarch tagging event, using coded stickers to track migration paths. Road Safety (Kansas): A Wichita man was injured after falling asleep at the wheel in a Russell County I-70 crash, according to Kansas Highway Patrol. Local Water Alerts (Kansas): KDHE rescinded a “Do Not Drink” order for Sundowner, Inc. in Saline County, while issuing a boil water advisory for Reno County’s RWD #8 after a waterline break.

Toll Travel Upgrade: Kansas Turnpike Authority says KTAG is now compatible with 19 toll agencies across multiple states, letting drivers use one transponder farther on trips. Roadside Stops Update: Work is progressing on the Kansas Turnpike’s Emporia Service Area redevelopment, with a new facility expected to open in August 2027 and upgrades including modern restrooms, expanded food options, and a dog park. Labor Day Fun (and Heat): Grinter Farms in Lawrence expects big Labor Day crowds for its sunflower fields, but warns Kansas summer heat and dry conditions could affect insects and flower longevity. Local Safety for Travelers: Wichita man Brandon Dennis Wuolukka was injured after falling asleep at the wheel in a Russell County I-70 semi crash. Airport Welcome Change: TSA is rolling out “Gateside by TSA PreCheck,” allowing eligible PreCheck members to pass security to meet loved ones sooner. Haunted House Timing: Kansas City’s Edge of Hell and The Beast will run only in October 2026 (13 nights) due to unsafe heat in their historic buildings. Water Alerts: KDHE rescinded a Do Not Drink order for Sundowner, Inc. in Saline County, and issued a boil water advisory for Reno County’s RWD #8 after a waterline break.

Kansas Turnpike Travel Upgrades: The Kansas Turnpike Authority is pushing ahead with Emporia Service Area redevelopment, with utility work underway and a planned opening in August 2027—new restrooms, expanded food and beverage options, and even a dog park. Toll Convenience: KTAG is now compatible with 19 toll agencies across multiple states, letting travelers use one transponder farther on the road. Water Safety Alerts: KDHE rescinded a Do Not Drink order for Sundowner, Inc. in Saline County after testing showed no bacteriological contamination and manganese below health advisory levels. Boil Water Notice: KDHE issued a boil water advisory for Reno County’s RWD #8 after a waterline break caused a pressure loss risk; residents should boil water for one minute and follow KDHE’s dish/ice precautions. Labor Day Travel Watch: AAA Kansas expects busy Labor Day travel despite higher gas prices, and Kansas officials are also warning about heat. Family Fun in Lawrence: Heartland Community Health Center is hosting a free “It Takes a Village” baby shower Sept. 12 at Panda Pediatrics, with local resources, raffles, and giveaways.

Kansas Travel & Tourism: Grinter Farms in Lawrence is gearing up for big Labor Day weekend sunflower crowds, even as scorching heat and dry conditions could affect blooms and insects. Road Trips & Tolling: The Kansas Turnpike Authority says KTAG is now compatible with 19 toll agencies across multiple states, letting travelers use one transponder more easily (no action needed beyond normal use). Lodging & Local Rules: Riley County is weighing higher penalties for unlicensed short-term rentals, proposing a $500 fine that could rise to $1,000 if not fixed within 30 days. Family Travel & Community: Lawrence is hosting a free “It Takes a Village” baby shower Sept. 12 at Panda Pediatrics, with local health and parenting resources plus giveaways. Outdoor Recreation: Kansas Wildlife and Parks approved changes to state park fees and several hunting rules, including new nonresident waterfowl timing limits and a fall turkey season for residents starting Oct. 31. Travel Infrastructure: Construction is advancing on the Emporia Kansas Turnpike service area redevelopment, with a planned opening in August 2027 and upgraded restrooms, food options, and parking.

Kansas Travel Watch: Great Bend’s new Ignite Innovation Center is on track for a fall opening, with a fire marshal walk-through planned mid-September and GBED moving in around September/October; the Chamber of Commerce is set to be the first tenant starting Nov. 1, and more community programs are already scheduled. Homeless Services & Local Impact: Wichita’s Second Light shelter received a one-time $5 million city grant from the Stabilization Reserve, but with a condition to expand bed capacity—an issue tied to how many people can be served year-round. Family-Friendly Stop: Lawrence is hosting a free “It Takes a Village” baby shower on Sept. 12 at Panda Pediatrics, with local health and parenting partners, raffles, and giveaways including a Graco Travel System. Outdoor Planning: The Kansas Wildlife and Parks Commission approved changes to hunting rules and Kansas State Park fees effective Nov. 1, 2026, including higher park fees and new nonresident waterfowl timing rules. Road Trip Reality Check: Labor Day travel demand is expected to stay high despite rising gas prices, with AAA Kansas warning drivers to plan for busy routes and backups.

Extreme Heat Warning: The National Weather Service has issued an extreme heat warning for Douglas County and much of Kansas through Tuesday evening, with Lawrence expected to hit a heat index near 106°F Friday—officials urge lighter clothing, fewer strenuous outings, and extra precautions. Labor Day Travel Watch: AAA Kansas expects a busy Labor Day weekend despite higher costs, with gas averaging $3.78 as of Sept. 3 (about 90 cents higher than last year) and travelers still heading out for family and trips. Road-Trip Disruptions: KDOT warns of delays on I-70 and U.S. 77 in Geary County around Kansas State home games, citing lane reductions and bridge/patching work—drivers should leave early and plan for backups. Local Safety Services: Johnson County officials and advocates are planning Kansas’ first family safety center, aiming to reduce the need for survivors to travel between multiple agencies. School Travel Scrutiny: A Kansas City, Kansas Public Schools board member is questioning high hotel costs for employee conferences, including rooms reported at $700–$900, and pushing for more transparent records. Rural Health Funding: Stormont Vail says federal health changes have been a net positive, pointing to Rural Health Transformation Program grants while debating how much goes toward primary care.

Kansas Travel & Tourism: Kansas AAA expects another big Labor Day travel push, with costs up but demand holding steady as people squeeze in one last summer trip. Road Trips & Getting There: KDOT warns I-70 and U.S. 77 in Geary County could slow during K-State home games, with lane reductions and possible back-ups near the K-18/I-70 interchange and bridge work on U.S. 77. Airport Convenience: TSA’s “Gateside by TSA PreCheck” lets approved non-fliers access parts of the terminal beyond security at select airports, including Salt Lake City, making gate-side hellos and goodbyes easier. Nature Watch: Monarch butterflies are expected to increase in Kansas this fall as they migrate south, with nectar conditions playing a key role. Kansas City Events: Downtown Kansas City will host a star-studded red-carpet premiere for “Don’t Move” at the Midland Theater on Sept. 8, with traffic impacts likely. Community Support: Shelter KC is critically low on hygiene essentials and is asking for travel-size soap, toothpaste, body wash, detergent, underwear, shower shoes, and toilet paper.

Road-Trip Reality Check (K-State game day): Manhattan-area construction could slow fans heading to Bill Snyder Family Stadium, including I-70 lane reductions near Junction City, a long I-70 closure in Topeka for bridge work, and US-77 bridge delays near Lyon Creek. International Sports Tourism: Kansas Athletics is leaning into a “guinea pig” global push after hosting Algeria during the World Cup, and is preparing the Union Jack Classic at Wembley next month. KU Reads + Space Tourism Vibe: NASA astronaut Loral O’Hara (KU alum) will return to Lawrence for a free KU Reads event Oct. 8, with a livestream option. Family Travel Safety: Emporia won $1.199M for Safe Routes to School upgrades near five USD 253 schools, adding sidewalks, ramps, crosswalks, and beacons. Health Access (Maternity Care): A new fact brief says 48 Kansas counties are maternity care deserts, meaning many families may face long drives for obstetric care. Local Fun Stop: Great Bend Brit Spaugh Zoo highlights its free, daily raptor-focused programming and rehab work.

Labor Day Travel Safety: Kansas Highway Patrol is urging drivers to buckle up, plan ahead, check road conditions at kandrive.org, and keep an emergency kit as part of the “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign. Gas Prices Watch: GasBuddy reports show midgrade and premium deals popping up in parts of Kansas, including Cherokee County midgrade at $3.95 and Franklin County premium at $3.97 (week ending Aug. 22), plus diesel lows like Kingman County at $4.84. Local Tourism & Culture: Kansas City, Kansas kicks off its first-ever Black Restaurant Week (Sept. 7–13) with 11 Black-owned spots and $9.13 specials tied to 913 Day. Family-Friendly Fun: The Great Bend Brit Spaugh Zoo highlights behind-the-scenes animal care, including raptor rehab and slow introductions for animals like KuneKune pigs. Access to Care: A Kansas fact brief says 48 of 105 counties are maternity care deserts, with longer travel times and higher risk for mothers and babies. Community Improvements: Emporia approved nearly $1.2 million for Safe Routes to School, adding sidewalks, ramps, crosswalk upgrades, and beacons near multiple USD 253 schools.