Funding has finally been secured for testing individuals from the community impacted by groundwater contamination sites in Sedgwick County, with a particular focus on the neighborhoods near 29th Street and Grove, officials have just announced.

A full $3.5 million in funding has been secured from a coalition featuring government, private-sector and nonprofit partners.

“While this situation has been complicated and at times tense, I believe we all need to applaud our local and state officials for their spirit of collaboration and for prioritizing the needs of residents in the 29th and Grove neighborhood,” said Ed O’Malley, Kansas Health Foundation president and CEO.

The community first learned about a chemical spill at 29th and Grove that contained a carcinogen called TCE in 2023. The spill, which occurred decades before, had contaminated groundwater beneath the area, creating a plume that extends for 2.9 miles.

Efforts began in the Kansas Legislature to provide funds for health testing of individuals who might be impacted by the spill. This led to an initial commitment of $1.5 million in state funds, with an additional $1 million from the state dependent on securing a $1 million local match.

The April 24 announcement includes $1 million in local funds and the $1.5 million from the state, matched by the $1 million local contribution.

“This effort reflects what’s possible when we come together across business, nonprofit, city, county and state lines for the health and safety of our community,” said Chairman Ryan Baty, Sedgwick County Commissioner for District 4.

The Kansas Health Foundation will administer the funds through a grant program. Healthcare entities interested in providing services to those impacted will be able to apply for grants to cover testing costs, including staff time, equipment and process expenses.

Program leaders say giving the money directly to local health clinics will give everyone who needs testing an affordable and convenient way to be tested. KHF will not receive any funding for administering the grant program, ensuring all $3.5 million will be available in grants.

An advisory group composed of city and county officials, healthcare experts and community members, will support administration of the grant program.

“The integrity of this effort hinges on the meaningful involvement of impacted community members,” said Wichita City Councilman Brandon Johnson. “Ensuring they receive regular updates and have the opportunity to provide valuable input on both the process and potential solutions. Recognizing this from the beginning, we have actively engaged with community health professionals and prioritized understanding the perspectives of those directly affected by the tragic spill.”

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