Topeka’s Turning Point: A City Faces the Truth
In 2016, Matt Pivarnik walked into a Topeka unsure of its future. As CEO of the Greater Topeka Partnership, his first bold move was helping the city assess its Net Promoter Score—a tool often reserved for major corporations. The result? A devastating -47. But instead of hiding it, Topeka used this score as fuel for transformation.
Hope, Health, Happiness, and Prosperity
Topeka’s comeback wasn’t just about PR. Pivarnik and his team measured progress using four key community markers: hope, health, happiness, and prosperity. Poverty rates dropped. Household incomes rose. And more importantly, citizens started to believe again—in the city, and in themselves.
Downtown on the Rise
From redeveloping Westridge Mall into a corporate campus to adding 600 new residential units downtown, Topeka’s physical transformation mirrors its emotional one. Pivarnik knew that vibrant cities need walkability, housing, and life after 5 PM. Topeka is finally getting all three.
What Makes Topeka Different?
The "Kansas nice" is real—and it’s Topeka’s secret sauce. Clean air, central location, sunshine, and sincerity: these are assets few cities can replicate. For Pivarnik, that genuine warmth is what draws people in and keeps them here.
Legacy, Prayer, and Planting Seeds
As he steps away, Pivarnik leaves behind not just buildings, but belief. His leadership team is strong. His message is clear: momentum must continue. He even made a personal vow to pray for Topeka every single day. Because the best cities aren’t just built—they’re loved.
About the Author:
This article How Topeka Transformed Itself: Hope, Development & Leadership w/ Matt Pivarnik was written by Justin Armbruster of the Armbruster Team at Genesis, LLC, REALTORS®—local experts in Topeka real estate, digital storytelling, and community impact. Justin has helped hundreds of clients buy and sell homes in the area and is deeply invested in the city’s future. Contact him at 785-260-4384 or follow along on Instagram for real estate tips, local highlights, and more.