On January 17, 2001, gas escaping under pressure from storage facilities 4 miles away traveled underground and emerged through an open well inside a building, where it ignited, causing a large explosion and beginning the Hutchinson Gas Crisis. City employees, public safety officials, and non-profit organizations worked tirelessly to determine the nature and source of the gas and to ensure the safety of Hutchinson residents. The land for this parking lot was donated to the city by the owners of the destroyed businesses, Decor Party Supplies and Hayes Sight & Sound.