Hays Arts Council
The new year brings an exciting new chapter for the Hays Arts Council (HAC), as construction on its long-anticipated renovation project is set to begin in February 2026.
At the end of 2025, PWC, Inc. was officially awarded the bid to serve as general contractor for the project. PWC has an outstanding reputation in Hays and the surrounding region and has recently completed several major community projects, including the Bob & Pat Schmidt Community Center, Fort Hays State University’s Tebo Library, and Cervs.
“This moment marks the transition from vision to action,” said Jo Ann Jennings, Vice President of the Board of Directors and Chair of the Capital Campaign Committee. “I’ve seen firsthand how deeply this project reflects the commitment and generosity of our community. This renovation will have a lasting impact for generations of the Hays community and beyond.”
To prepare for the renovation, the Hays Arts Council will host an “everything must go” community sale from Monday, January 26 through Saturday, January 31, from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM each day in the former Madd Matter Frame Shop. Art, office supplies, small furniture pieces, and other miscellaneous items will be available by free will donation.
Additionally, the public is invited to attend a Construction Kickoff Event in conjunction with The Chamber in Hays, Kansas, on Monday, February 2, beginning at 4:00 PM at the Hays Arts Center. Brief remarks will be followed by a unique opportunity for attendees to leave their mark on the space before construction begins. HAC leadership will also share information about temporary locations and operations during the renovation period.
Construction is expected to continue through 2026 and into early 2027, with a major community celebration planned later in 2027 to coincide with the Hays Arts Council’s 60th Anniversary.
The For the Heart of Hays campaign has been made possible through generous support from the Robert E. & Patricia A. Schmidt Foundation, Kansas Department of Commerce, The Leo J. Dreiling and Albina Dreiling Charitable Trust, Beach Edwards Family Foundation, Dane G. Hansen Foundation, and nearly 200 individual donors and community businesses. Donations are still being accepted as construction begins.
To learn more about the project or to contribute, visit www.haysartscouncil.org.