Leavenworth County's commercial markets rest on a solid economic base and an aptitude for cooperation, two strengths that promise dividends in the near future.

The historic foundation for Leavenworth’s economic development is built around Fort Leavenworth and five public and private correctional institutions that together employ nearly 10,000 people. Although rarely explosive, those two fields bring solid demand for support businesses, offices and related development that have helped drive the area’s economy.

Leavenworth County has also illustrated a cooperative bent that is best exemplified by a partnership comprised of the Leavenworth County Port Authority and Leavenworth County Development Corp. (LCDC). The most visible efforts are two office parks located at opposite ends of the county. Both saw development in 2005.

In Leavenworth, Cereal Ingredients, Inc. recently completed a new headquarters and manufacturing facility in the Gary E. Carlson Leavenworth Area Business Center. The new 40,000 square foot facility will employ 30 and plans call for 15 more within three years. Two 20,000 square foot expansions of the Leavenworth facility are also planned.

Nearby, Canaan Stone Works, LLC purchased the 10,000 square foot speculative building recently constructed in the center. The 10,000 square foot facility is the fifth speculative building built by the LCDC/Port Authority Partnership. All are sold or leased.

In Basehor, CSE Emblems expanded its facility by 11,000 square feet. The $1.5 million investment will bring 41 additional employees.

Not everything is rosy, however. Although no fault of Leavenworth County, Hallmark Cards is phasing out production of greeting cards in its Leavenworth plant, sending 125 jobs to either Lawrence or Topeka. Hallmark will continue to produce partyware and gift wrap in Leavenworth with a workforce of 500 people.

A unique trend was beginning to develop in downtown Leavenworth. A former “Tire Town” auto parts outlet at 401 and 402 S. Second St. will be redeveloped for retail shops, a restaurant and residences. The city is committing $300,000 to facilitate the relocation of original businesses and approximately $150,000 to construct 150 parking spaces. The city will also develop a one-block segment of the Three Mile Creek Trail, a nearby greenway.