Problem: Downtown Wichita, KS developed a problem with groundwater contamination. The contaminants were industrial solvents, which were spreading quickly through the area. The spread of the pollution caused a decline in property values and interfered with plans for improvement and redevelopment; mortgages were unavailable in the area. Proposed Solution: The adverse economic effects on the business district from the contamination were severe enough that it was felt that the typical decontamination process involving Superfund and the EPA moved too slowly to help the district recover. Instead, the city took charge of the problem. Local businesses, particularly Coleman Co, helped pay the cost of the cleanup; tax increases also helped provide the necessary revenue. The city assumed liability for the cleanup on some of the land in the affected area in order to encourage the resumption of lending. Evaluation: Thus far, the project appears successful. The areas real estate markets have recovered, and commercial development has resumed in the area. Removal of the contaminated water has begun in some areas and will soon extend to others. In general, recovery and cleanup have taken place more quickly than is normal for Superfund/EPA projects. Contacts: Chris Cherches, City Manager, City Hall, 13th Floor, 455 N. Main St, Wichita, KS 67202. Phone 316-268-4351. Citation: "Innovations 1992." Governing Magazine, Volume 6, October 1992, p. 36. Keywords: pollution cleanup environment