WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind - October 15, 2025 - The City of West Lafayette has announced the launch of its Early Childhood Education (ECE) initiative with the release of a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for the design of a new Early Childhood Education Center.

Conservative estimates show the City needs between 75 and 125 additional childcare slots, with the most acute shortage for infants. This estimate does not include more than 2,500 homes currently in development or the 1,000-plus jobs expected at the Purdue Research Park. Families across the community are facing long waitlists, affordability challenges, and limited options, particularly for high-quality care. Without investment, officials warn, the gap will only continue to widen.

The shortage impacts not only families but the broader community:

• Families in the lowest income brackets spend nearly 30% of their household income on childcare, compared to 7% for high-income families.
• Parents report long waitlists and limited choices, especially for infant care and programs inclusive of children with disabilities.
• Employers struggle to recruit and retain workers when reliable childcare is unavailable.

The City of West Lafayette is seeking to address this shortage to meet the needs of both current and future residents. By beginning the design process, the City is moving from planning into action, building on the findings of the West Lafayette Early Childhood
Education Report and momentum already underway across Greater Lafayette. This initiative complements the efforts of community partners such as Ivy Tech, Right Steps, Greater Lafayette Career Academy, Purdue’s Center for Early Learning, and the Early Learning Workforce Coalition, who are working to expand the childcare workforce and system.

Research shows that investment in early childhood education not only supports families today but also generates long-term benefits for schools, employers, and communities as a whole.

Mayor Erin R. Easter underscored the importance of the initiative, stating:
“From early childhood through advanced degrees, education has always been West Lafayette’s greatest investment. As we take this next step toward a new Early Childhood Education Center, we are building on the work of our partners to ensure families have access to the high-quality care they need today - while laying the foundation for a stronger community tomorrow.”

City officials emphasize that the initiative will be guided by principles of transparency, equity, and fiscal responsibility. The design phase is expected to provide a framework for a facility that meets current needs while allowing for future growth. Public input will continue to play a role in shaping the project to ensure the center reflects the community’s priorities.

Residents are encouraged to learn more and follow the project’s progress at wlmoves.com/projects/special-initiatives

View the RFQ here: https://www.westlafayette.in.gov/home/showpublisheddocument/4032