A newly extended road at Fort Hays State University  just east of Big Creek opens a new path through the campus.

Dwight Drive now curves northwest around the levee and connects with Gustad Drive, the road connecting the main campus to Gross Memorial Coliseum.

Although other vehicles were already parked on the new pavement, University Police Chief Ed Howell got behind the wheel of his black police cruiser and had the  honor of being the first to officially drive across the road extension.

During Tuesday morning’s opening ceremony, FHSU President Dr. Ed Hammond said the road also marks completion of the university’s old master plan.

“This is also a transition to a new plan for the future and Dwight Drive will provide access to a new academic building, the Center for Networked Learning, ”  Hammond said.  Final design presentation of the new building is scheduled  for July 10.

The Dwight Drive extension project cost was $500,000.  It was built by APAC-Kansas Inc. of Hays.

Watch more from the opening ceremony tonight on Street Beat Eagle Community TV Channel 14.