Michael's Wonder World Breaks Ground in Olathe

New accessible theme park part of Halo Ridge development in Kansas

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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Michael's Wonder World, an accessible theme park, has broken ground in Olathe, Kansas as part of the larger Halo Ridge development. The project is inspired by the founder's son Michael, who is nonverbal and uses a wheelchair, and aims to create a space where people of all abilities can enjoy recreational activities together.

Why it matters

The new theme park and Halo Ridge development represent an effort to create an inclusive community and address the challenges faced by people with disabilities when it comes to accessing recreational activities and public spaces. By designing an amusement park with fully accessible rides and attractions, the project aims to remove barriers and provide a welcoming environment for individuals of all abilities.

The details

The groundbreaking ceremony was attended by local leaders, including Kansas Governor Laura Kelly, who called the development "transformative." Michael's Wonder World will feature a variety of accessible rides and experiences, such as a pendulum ride, 4D theater, sports-themed attractions, and a water feature. The larger Halo Ridge development will also include a 'one-stop shop' care collective, a sports arena, and accessible hotel, retail, and dining options.

  • The groundbreaking ceremony was held on Thursday, February 13, 2026.
  • Developers plan to start construction within the next 90 days and estimate the project will take 12-24 months to complete.

The players

Michael's Wonder World

An accessible theme park that is the centerpiece of the Halo Ridge development in Olathe, Kansas.

Halo Ridge

A fully accessible development in Olathe that will include the theme park, a care collective, sports arena, and other amenities.

James Arkell

The chief operating officer at Loretto Holdings, the company behind the Halo Ridge development. The theme park is named after his son Michael, who is nonverbal and uses a wheelchair.

Lamar Hunt Jr.

The president of Loretto Holdings and Michael's grandfather, who spoke at the groundbreaking ceremony.

Laura Kelly

The Governor of Kansas, who attended the groundbreaking ceremony and called the development "transformative."

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What they’re saying

“It's a city within a city. It's a little hub with retail, government services, and nonprofits. It's everyone coming together in a way they don't normally get to do to make better solutions and outcomes for people that are 25% or more of our population.”

— James Arkell, Chief Operating Officer, Loretto Holdings (kctv5.com)

“The idea is to remove barriers for people to be able to go and enjoy things, being able to go on vacations, being able to go and participate in sports. It's not just my son in a wheelchair, you have grandparents, you have lots of people and the barriers that come with stuff like that. It makes it hard to travel, hard to do things as a family, and you're already stressed out enough. So being able to make a place where everyone, as much as we can, no matter what their situation, can come have fun.”

— James Arkell, Chief Operating Officer, Loretto Holdings (kctv5.com)

“I so admire the families that take on the tasks of, sometimes totally unasked for, of a special needs child or children with disabilities. I had a first cousin growing up who outlived his entire family, and he was an amazing young man and friend for many, many years. Just admiration for what is being done here. The idea is to let people know to stop snarking at each other and just admire these beautiful gifts.”

— Lamar Hunt Jr., President, Loretto Holdings (kctv5.com)

What’s next

Developers are currently working on permitting for clearing the ground and plan to start construction within the next 90 days, with an estimated 12-24 month timeline for completion of the project.

The takeaway

The Halo Ridge development, anchored by the accessible Michael's Wonder World theme park, represents a significant effort to create an inclusive community that removes barriers and provides recreational opportunities for individuals of all abilities. This project highlights the growing demand for more accessible public spaces and the positive impact they can have on families and communities.