UPDATE: The Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) has confirmed that U.S. 56 east of Great Bend will undergo a significant expansion, transforming into a four-lane highway by 2030. This major project will enhance safety and promote regional growth, as the Barton County Commission has just approved an agreement with KDOT for the expansion to the K-156 junction, known as Doonan Corner.
This expansion, estimated to cost $18 million, will span approximately two miles and include a grassed median. County Engineer Barry McManaman stated that the agreement includes provisions for maintenance and local road connections, ensuring that community needs are met throughout the construction process.
The county’s commitment includes a 10% local match, amounting to $1.8 million. Instead of a direct payment, KDOT has allowed the county to credit previous expenditures on local road projects, further easing the financial burden. However, the county must address the replacement of a bridge on NE 20 Avenue, which McManaman described as “somewhat narrow” and a necessary upgrade.
The project aims to improve safety by reconstructing existing lanes and adding two new ones, resulting in a four-lane divided expressway. The K-156 intersection will also receive significant upgrades, incorporating a “Green T” layout that does not use traffic signals. To enhance safety, three existing access points will be relocated or removed entirely, including:
– The East Barton County Road entrance will be redirected to intersect with Kiowa Road.
– Access on NE 40 Avenue will be shifted to a frontage road with access from K-156.
– A north-side field entrance east of Fort Zarah State Park will also be removed, with a new access point established.
While the project is currently in the design phase and not yet funded for construction, bid letting is scheduled for 2030. Discussions about widening U.S. 56 have been ongoing since 2019, reflecting a strong community desire for improved infrastructure.
Commission Chair Tricia Schlessiger emphasized the importance of this agreement, stating, “This agreement would cap what we have to contribute. Even if construction costs go up, they wouldn’t be asking us to contribute any more.”
Commissioner Shawn Hutchinson expressed initial reluctance about the county’s involvement in a state highway project but recognized the value in promoting regional growth as essential for lowering property taxes. He noted, “The only way to lower property taxes is to grow our population,” highlighting the need for infrastructure improvements to attract new residents.
This project has been identified as a high priority in regional planning meetings and was included in the 10-year Eisenhower Legacy Transportation Program (IKE) Construction Pipeline in September 2023. As right-of-way acquisitions begin closer to the project start date, local officials are optimistic about the positive impact this expansion will have on the community.
Stay tuned for further updates as this significant project progresses, and share this news to keep your community informed about vital infrastructure developments!
