Dodge City Hosts Ad Astra FAM Tour During Dodge City Days

Showcasing Growth, Opportunity, and Western Hospitality to Site Selectors and State Leaders

Dodge City welcomed more than two dozen site selectors, state officials, and business development professionals July 30–August 1 as part of the Ad Astra Familiarization (FAM) Tour, held in conjunction with Dodge City Days. The tour offered guests a firsthand look at economic growth, infrastructure investment, and quality of life in Southwest Kansas.

 The three-day tour kicked off with a welcome reception and steak dinner at the historic Depot Theater, followed by a full agenda of immersive experiences highlighting Dodge City’s unique assets. Attendees toured key development sites, including new housing subdivisions, industrial parks, Hilmar Cheese Company, and the city’s award-winning Wastewater Treatment Facility.

Other highlights included:

  • A breakfast presentation by Team Kansas, Dodge City/Ford County Development Corporation, Sunflower Electric, Hutton Construction, ITC, and Kansas Gas

  • A walking tour of the iconic Boot Hill Museum

  • A panel discussion featuring leaders from local government, utilities, higher education, and public schools

  • A VIP experience at the Dodge City Days Rodeo

  • A touch of western flair with custom cowboy hat fittings 

“This was an incredible opportunity to share Dodge City’s progress and potential with professionals who play a key role in business and site selection across Kansas,” said Mollea Lightner, Assistant Director of the Dodge City/Ford County Development Corporation. “We’re proud of what we’ve built here, and even prouder to share it with people who understand the importance of community-driven growth.”

The Dodge City/Ford County Development Corporation hosted the event in partnership with Team Kansas and the Kansas Department of Commerce, which works to strengthen business development statewide.

Mollea Wainscott