OFFICE OF REP. WASINGER
TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Transportation has pledged to match $1 million in funding for road improvements in Ellis County’s Northwest Business Corridor, contingent on approval of a grant the county has made to the Dane G. Hansen Foundation, Logan.
“I appreciate the ongoing dialogue regarding the Northwest Business Corridor in Ellis County/’ Deputy Secretary of Transportation, Lindsey Douglas wrote. “Investments in the corridor will pay dividends by providing more efficient access to jobs…. Which will enhance freight connectivity and provide better access to regional markets and beyond.”
Rep. Barb Wasinger (R-Hays), 111th District, brought together a coalition of federal, state, county and city leaders in February to see the road first-hand, tour businesses whose operations are affected by the road, and asked all parties to work together for a solution.
“I’d like to thank Congressman Marshall, Commerce Secretary Toland and Deputy Transportation Secretary Douglas, as well as Senator Billinger, Representative Rahjes, and our county and city commissioners for their work on this project,” Wasinger said.
“Commitment of these funds from the state, along with previously approved Ellis County funding, are moving this project forward. We’re hopeful the Dane G. Hansen Foundation will favorably consider the county’s grant application, and help make these improvements a reality.”
The Northwest Business Corridor, which includes 230th Avenue between 1-70 and Feedlot Road, as well as Feedlot Road from 230th Avenue to U.S. Highway 183, has long been eyed for improvements.
In particular, 230th Avenue is a narrow limestone road that sees hundreds of vehicles and heavy trucks daily, including traffic from Pertl Feeders, Hess Services, Midwest Energy and Ellis County Concrete.
Poor sight lines, drainage and erosion have made the road dangerous for the volume of traffic it serves.
Improvements along the corridor are also essential for a travel plaza planned for the area, and could help alleviate truck congestion once roundabouts on Vine Street are completed.