Marina
The NCAA Tournament brought an influx of basketball fans to Wichita, Kansas, leading to significant congestion in downtown parking areas.
To manage the high volume of visitors, the city, in collaboration with parking management services, implemented strategies to ensure smoother parking experiences.
Peak Parking Demand
On March 20, 2025, downtown Wichita experienced a surge in visitors, with hundreds of thousands attending various NCAA Tournament events and associated activities.
This influx led to increased demand for parking spaces, particularly near the INTRUST Bank Arena, the primary venue for the tournament.
Role of Parking Management Services
The Parking Company of America (PCA), with over six decades of experience, played a pivotal role in managing the heightened parking needs during the tournament.
Recognizing the event’s scale, PCA expanded its team by hiring additional staff to oversee parking operations effectively.
Andrew Haffner, PCA’s operator, noted the tournament’s significance, stating it attracts thousands to Wichita, making efficient parking management crucial.
Enhanced Parking Options
To accommodate the increased number of visitors, several parking facilities were made available near the INTRUST Bank Arena.
These included both on-street parking and privately owned lots and garages. A comprehensive list of parking options within walking distance of the arena was provided, featuring details such as location, capacity, and operating hours.
Transportation Alternatives
To alleviate parking pressures, the city offered alternative transportation options:
- Q-LINE Trolley: A free service running approximately every 15 minutes along Douglas Avenue, from Walnut Street to N. Edgemore Street, with extended service to the WaterWalk lot during the tournament.
- Park & Ride Shuttle: Operating from USD 259 Wichita East High School, this service ran two hours before tip-off and one hour after the final game on tournament days, with downtown drop-off and pick-up at Naftzger Park.
Road Closures and Traffic Management
To facilitate the smooth flow of pedestrians and vehicles during the tournament, certain roads were temporarily closed:
- Effective Dates: From Tuesday, March 18, through the morning of Monday, March 24.
- Affected Areas: Waterman between Mead and Emporia, St. Francis from Douglas to William, and Emporia from Waterman to William.
Designated Drop-Off and Pick-Up Zones
For the convenience of attendees using ride-sharing services or hotel shuttles, the Colman Lot at 250 N. St. Francis was designated as the primary drop-off and pick-up location.
This centralized spot helped reduce congestion around the arena and ensured efficient passenger flow.
The NCAA Tournament significantly boosted Wichita’s tourism and local economy.
By utilizing the enhanced parking options, alternative transportation services, and staying informed through official channels, visitors were able to navigate the city efficiently and fully enjoy the tournament experience.