Olathe, Kansas
Olathe, Kansas, is a city located in the northeastern part of the state. Here are some key details about Olathe:
General Information
- Location: Johnson County, northeastern Kansas
- Population: Approximately 141,000 (as of the 2020 census)
- Founded: 1857
- Name Origin: The name “Olathe” is derived from the Shawnee word for “beautiful.”
Education
- Major School Districts:
- Olathe Public Schools (USD 233)
- Higher Education:
- MidAmerica Nazarene University
- Kansas State University’s Olathe campus
- Johnson County Community College (nearby in Overland Park)
Economy
- Major Industries:
- Information Technology
- Manufacturing
- Distribution
- Healthcare
- Major Employers:
- Garmin International
- Farmers Insurance Group
- Olathe Medical Center
Attractions
- Historic Sites:
- Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop & Farm Historic Site
- Parks and Recreation:
- Ernie Miller Nature Center
- Lake Olathe Park
- Cedar Lake Park
- Cultural Sites:
- Kansas City Automotive Museum
- Olathe Community Theatre Association (OCTA)
Climate
- Climate Type: Humid continental
- Average Temperatures:
- Summer: Highs in the upper 80s to low 90s °F (31-34 °C)
- Winter: Highs in the upper 30s to low 40s °F (3-6 °C)
- Precipitation: Rainfall is fairly evenly distributed, with occasional snow in winter
Transportation
- Major Highways: I-35, U.S. Route 50, K-7
- Public Transit: RideKC (bus system serving the Kansas City metropolitan area)
- Airport: New Century AirCenter (general aviation) and Kansas City International Airport (MCI, located in Kansas City, Missouri)
Culture and Events
- Annual Events:
- Johnson County Old Settlers Days
- Garmin Marathon
- Olathe Sweet Corn Festival
- Mahaffie Stagecoach Stop events
Government
- City Government: Mayor-council government
- Mayor: John Bacon (as of 2024)
Olathe is part of the Kansas City metropolitan area and is known for its high quality of life, strong educational system, and thriving business environment. The city combines suburban living with access to urban amenities, making it a desirable place for families and professionals.