Zarah Lofts Project Faces Delay; New Completion Date Set for 2026

The construction of the Lofts at the Zarah has been postponed, with a new completion deadline set for June 30, 2026. During the Great Bend City Council meeting on Monday, the contractor, Justin Pregont of Pomeroy Development, requested an extension due to unforeseen circumstances that have impeded progress on the project initially slated for completion in 2025.

Pregont, representing the local ownership group, emphasized the importance of the project, which aims to transform the upper floors of the historic Zarah Hotel on Main Street into loft apartments. He expressed gratitude to the city for its assistance in securing funding through various programs, which are critical to the project’s success. The extension is part of two cooperative agreements with the city that were originally set to expire at the end of this year.

The first agreement involves the moderate income housing ARPA program, supported by the Kansas Housing Resource Corporation. The second relates to an Industrial Revenue Bond that facilitates a sales tax exemption for construction materials. With the council’s approval, the developer can now align these programs to ensure the project’s viability.

Pregont noted that the extension does not require additional funding, allowing the team to focus on overcoming the challenges associated with the construction. “The commitment that the ownership group made to use local companies is really commendable,” he said. He highlighted the complexity of the renovation, which involves both concrete and wood frame elements, and the unpredictability of working with older buildings.

The council members showed unanimous support for the new timeline, seeking updates on the project’s status. Pregont, who visits Great Bend every four to six weeks, provided several positive updates:

– An operable elevator platform is now in place, with installation of the elevator cab forthcoming.
– The craftsmanship displayed by Mark Bitter’s team is evident in the meticulous restoration of historic woodwork throughout the building.
– Significant plumbing work has been completed to meet modern building codes.
– The entire structure has received a new roof, along with new Pella windows.
– A new stairway has been constructed, enhancing access from the first floor to the fourth floor.

Local representative Sheryl Cheely expressed her appreciation for the council’s support and shared her excitement about the project’s progress. “It’s been a long-time dream, and it’s looking great,” she noted. The reopening of the restaurant on the ground floor is also anticipated, adding to the revitalization of the area.

The timing of the lofts’ completion aligns with ongoing community events. This past weekend featured the Final Fridays on Forest and the Family Crisis Center’s Fall Festival at Jack Kilby Square, making downtown Great Bend a vibrant destination. Cheely mentioned that new residents, including healthcare professionals, are eager to rent the upcoming lofts.

Looking ahead, developers are planning a walk-through for city council members and invited guests in November 2023, further showcasing the project’s advancements.

In other business during the council meeting, several important items were addressed. The council approved a claims warrant that included payments amounting to $434,619.88 for payroll ending September 27, 2023. Additionally, an abatement was granted for a property at 1516 2nd St., where a brush pile needs removal.

A temporary extension was also approved for Dry Lake Brewery at 1305 Main, allowing the establishment to host a Halloween event with food trucks and a pumpkin smash on November 1, 2023. The council voted to close the alley from Lakin Avenue to Forest Avenue and a section of the city-owned parking lot at Lakin and Williams from 16:00 to midnight. Dry Lake Brewery is working with the state Alcoholic Beverage Control to secure necessary permits for the planned activities. City Administrator Logan Burns confirmed that similar requests have been granted since 2021.

As the Zarah Lofts project progresses, it stands as a centerpiece of community development and revitalization efforts in Great Bend, promising to enhance the local housing market and bring new life to the historic hotel.