Olathe

Olathe

General Information
Name	Olathe
Native Name
Other Names
Settlement Type	City
Transliteration
Language 1
Type 1
Info 1
Location
Coordinates	38°53 10°N
Map
Population
Total	141290
Density	auto per km²
Area
Total	157.9 km²
Land	156.7 km²
Water	1.2 km²
Government
Type	Mayor–Council
Leader	John Bacon
Time Zone
Standard	UTC-6
DST	UTC-5

History

Olathe, a city in Johnson County, Kansas, was founded in 1857 by Dr. John T. Barton. The name "Olathe" is derived from the Shawnee language word for "beautiful." The city quickly became a stop on the Oregon Trail, the California Trail, and the Santa Fe Trail, which contributed to its early growth and development.

During the American Civil War, Olathe was the site of several skirmishes and was occupied by both Union and Confederate forces at different times. After the war, the city continued to grow as a center of agriculture and trade.

Geography

Olathe is located at

   
       38°53 
       10°N
   

. According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 157.9 square kilometers, of which 156.7 square kilometers is land and 1.2 square kilometers is water.

The city is part of the Kansas City metropolitan area and is situated in the northeastern part of Kansas. Olathe's terrain is characterized by rolling hills and prairie land, typical of the region.

Demographics

As of the 2020 census, Olathe had a population of 141,290. The city has experienced significant growth over the past few decades, becoming one of the largest cities in Kansas.

The racial makeup of the city is predominantly White, with growing populations of African Americans, Asian Americans, and Hispanic and Latino Americans. The city is known for its family-friendly environment and high quality of life.

Economy

Olathe's economy is diverse, with major sectors including manufacturing, retail, and education. The city is home to several large employers, including Garmin, a leading technology company specializing in GPS technology, and Farmers Insurance Group.

The presence of these companies, along with a strong local business community, has contributed to Olathe's economic stability and growth.

Education

Olathe is served by the Olathe School District, which is one of the largest school districts in Kansas. The district operates numerous elementary, middle, and high schools, providing comprehensive education to the city's youth.

Higher education institutions in Olathe include the MidAmerica Nazarene University and the Kansas State University Olathe campus, which offer a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs.

Transportation

Olathe is well-connected by a network of highways, including Interstate 35, which runs through the city and provides easy access to Kansas City, Missouri. Public transportation is provided by Johnson County Transit, which operates several bus routes in the area.

The city is also served by the New Century AirCenter, a general aviation airport located nearby, which supports business and private aviation needs.

Parks and Recreation

Olathe offers a wide range of parks and recreational facilities, including the Lake Olathe Park, which features a marina, beach, and trails. The city maintains numerous parks, sports complexes, and community centers that provide residents with opportunities for outdoor activities and sports.

Healthcare

Olathe is home to several healthcare facilities, including the Olathe Medical Center, a comprehensive hospital providing a wide range of medical services. The city also has numerous clinics and specialty care centers, ensuring access to quality healthcare for its residents.

Notable People

Olathe has been home to several notable individuals, including Paul Rudd, an actor known for his roles in film and television, and Buddy Rogers, a musician and actor.

Sister Cities

Olathe has established sister city relationships with several international cities, fostering cultural exchange and mutual understanding.

See Also

• Johnson County, Kansas
• Kansas City metropolitan area
• Oregon Trail

Also see

Category Healthcare providers in Kansas not found