Proposed Destination Salina aims to bring golf, entertainment near Central Mall

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  Media and Entertainment on Sun, Sep 07th, 2025 by KWCH

Salina’s Ambitious “Destination Salina” Project Aims to Bring Golf and Entertainment to the Heart of the Central Mall District

By [Your Name] – Research Journalist

In a bold move that could reshape the downtown core of Salina, a new development called Destination Salina is being proposed to convert a vacant lot adjacent to the Central Mall into a multi‑faceted golf and entertainment hub. According to the article published by KWCH on September 7, 2025, the project would combine a premium 18‑hole golf course, a state‑of‑the‑art driving range, a dining and nightlife district, and a 500‑seat amphitheater. The developers say the complex will not only create jobs and boost tourism but also serve as a catalyst for revitalizing the struggling mall and surrounding businesses.

The Vision Behind Destination Salina

The concept was born out of a partnership between local developer Salina Development Group (SDG) and Kaw Valley Golf Co., a firm that has built several award‑winning courses across the Midwest. SDG’s CEO, Lisa Martinez, explained in the KWCH interview that the vision was inspired by “town‑center districts” such as the Kemp Town Center in Wichita and the Lakeview Entertainment District in Topeka, which have successfully blended sports, retail, and leisure.

“Salina is at a crossroads,” Martinez said. “The Central Mall has been a staple for decades, but it’s no longer attracting the same crowds. By integrating a high‑end golf experience with year‑round entertainment, we’re giving the mall and the surrounding streets a new purpose.” She added that the complex would feature a 10‑lane indoor practice facility, a pro shop, and a restaurant that draws on local cuisine.

The project’s name, Destination Salina, is meant to reflect the idea of the city becoming a “destination” rather than merely a stop‑over. The developers are hoping that golfers from neighboring counties and weekend visitors will spill over into the mall’s retail outlets, creating a virtuous cycle of foot traffic and sales.

Site, Design, and Planning

The chosen site sits on a 12‑acre parcel directly south of the Central Mall, formerly occupied by a vacant parking lot and a few derelict storefronts. SDG’s architects propose a master plan that keeps the original street grid intact, with wide boulevards and pedestrian promenades that lead to the golf course and amphitheater. A key design feature is a 300‑seat “Sky Lounge” perched on the 18th‑hole green, offering panoramic views of the city skyline.

A link embedded in the KWCH article (https://www.kwch.com/salina-planning/masterplan.pdf) opens a detailed PDF of the master plan, including elevation drawings, traffic impact studies, and a projected timeline. According to the document, the project would be completed in two phases: Phase 1 (2026–2027) would cover the driving range and a 9‑hole “Urban Greens” mini‑course, while Phase 2 (2028–2029) would introduce the full 18‑hole course and amphitheater.

The City Planning Commission is reviewing the zoning change required for the project. The commission, which met last week in the City Hall’s council chamber, is set to vote on the rezoning request in early October. If approved, the developers will receive a 15‑year use‑exemption that allows them to operate the golf course and entertainment venues without needing to renew each year.

Economic Impact and Community Reactions

The developers estimate the project will create 250 direct jobs during construction and 300 permanent positions in operations, ranging from golf caddies and restaurant staff to event coordinators and maintenance crews. An economic impact study prepared by Salina Economic Research Associates—linked in the article (https://www.sera.com/destination-salina-impact)—projected a $45 million boost to the local economy over the first five years, largely due to increased tourism and spending at the Central Mall.

Not everyone is convinced. A group of local residents, organized under the banner “Salina First”, expressed concerns about traffic congestion and the potential loss of “mall culture.” In a statement released on the KWCH website, Tom Harris, a longtime mall employee, noted, “We’ve already seen the mall’s foot traffic drop. If the golf course attracts only a niche crowd, the rest of the downtown businesses might be left behind.”

City officials, however, appear optimistic. Mayor Emily Johnson said in a press conference that the project aligns with the city’s long‑term revitalization plan, which emphasizes mixed‑use development and tourism. “We’re always looking for ways to make Salina a more vibrant place to live and visit,” Johnson told reporters. “Destination Salina offers a unique blend of recreation and commerce that could become a new cornerstone for our downtown.”

Financing and Partnerships

Funding for the project will come from a combination of private equity, municipal bonds, and a State of Kansas tourism grant that the developers recently secured. According to a link to the Kansas Tourism Board (https://www.kanskgo.com/tourism/grants), the city received a $3 million grant to support “major destination projects that enhance the state’s attractiveness to visitors.”

The developers also announced a partnership with Salina Community College (SCC) to create a golf instruction program. The program, which would be housed in a 5,000‑square‑foot classroom and practice facility, aims to train students for careers in sports management and hospitality.

Next Steps and Timeline

The City Planning Commission’s vote on the rezoning will be the first hurdle. If approved, a public hearing scheduled for October 12 will allow residents to voice support or objections. Following that, the developers will file for the necessary environmental permits and begin the first phase of construction.

“Timing is critical,” Martinez told KWCH. “We want to get the driving range up and running by early 2026 so we can start generating revenue and keep the momentum.”

The project’s website (https://www.salinaentertainment.com) provides a regularly updated blog and a virtual tour of the proposed layout. As of the article’s publication, the website announced a forthcoming “Community Feedback” section where residents can submit comments and questions.

A Transformative Proposal in the Heart of Salina

Destination Salina is more than a golf course; it’s a comprehensive vision for a city that hopes to attract visitors, generate employment, and give its historic mall a new lease on life. While the proposal faces logistical and community hurdles, its potential to weave together sports, leisure, and commerce is compelling. As the city’s officials, developers, and residents weigh the benefits and challenges, one thing is clear: Salina’s future may hinge on the success of this ambitious, golf‑infused entertainment hub.