Salina, KS — As Salina Family Healthcare Center looks ahead to its next chapter in a brand-new, state-of-the-art facility, the organization is already demonstrating community collaboration on the site where its future will take shape.
While the former Kansas OneGas/Evergy location at 1001 Edison Pl. has been vacated in anticipation of demolition and construction, Salina Family Healthcare Center has partnered with local agencies to open the unused space to the Salina Police Department and the Kansas Highway Patrol for specialized training exercises.
“My unit is always looking for places to train and it is partnerships like this that allow for realistic training locations. I appreciate the cooperation and look forward to future trainings,” said Trooper Christopher Beas of the Kansas Highway Patrol.
The temporary access allows first responders to train in conditions that are more dynamic and realistic than a controlled facility, without concerns about property damage. So far, the Salina Police Department’s SWAT team and K9 Unit have used the facility for a series of scenario-based tactical trainings, including building clearing and hostage rescue drills.
“The Salina Police Department is committed to providing our officers with training that mirrors the realities of modern policing. Real-world training environments allow our officers to practice decision-making, communication, and tactical skills under realistic conditions. By partnering with local organizations such as this, we are able to conduct these important trainings in a safe and controlled setting, ensuring our officers are better prepared to respond effectively and safely in our community,” said Capt. Kyle Tonniges, Salina Police Department SWAT Team Commander.
“Partnerships like this show what’s possible when we come together for the greater good,” said Maddie Chandler, Community Engagement Coordinator at Salina Family Healthcare Center. “While we’re incredibly excited to break ground on our future home in Spring 2026, this opportunity to support our local first responders adds deeper meaning to the journey.”
“This is about more than constructing a building. It’s about investing in a healthier, safer Salina,” said Dr. Robert Kraft, Chief Executive Officer.
The new facility is part of a broader capital campaign aimed at meeting the growing health-care needs of the Salina community. Key goals of the project include:
- Expanding clinical space across all service lines — including medical, dental, pharmacy, eye care, behavioral health, and community outreach — to serve more patients with high-quality care.
- Consolidating services under one roof to provide comprehensive, patient-centered care in a more accessible and efficient setting.
- Growing educational and residency programs to train additional health professionals and strengthen the region’s workforce.
This partnership reflects Salina Family Healthcare Center’s mission to serve the community beyond traditional health care. By transforming a vacant space into a high-value training ground, the organization is supporting both future patients and the safety and readiness of first responders.
As demolition approaches, Salina Family Healthcare Center remains focused on thoughtful, community-driven development and looks forward to sharing milestones as construction begins.
Learn more and get involved
To learn more about the project or support the Healthy Salina, Healthy Kansas campaign, visit https://salinahealth.org/donate or contact Maddie Chandler at fundraising@salinahealth.org.
About Salina Family Healthcare Center
Salina Family Healthcare Center is a Federally Qualified Health Center providing integrated medical, dental, behavioral health, pharmacy, and outreach services to residents of Salina and surrounding communities, regardless of insurance status or income. SFHC also operates the Smoky Hill Family Medicine Residency Program, preparing future physicians to serve rural Kansas.
https://salinahealth.org
