HUTCHINSON, Kan. — After considerable discussion, the Reno County Commission agreed to post the “share the road” signs on the old K-61 highway, however with a catch. The bicycle enthusiast pushing for the signs will have to come up with the $690.00 cost themselves.
Commissioner Dan Deming had wanted the county to pay the cost, but Commissioner Brad Dillon suggested that those who want the signs placed on the old highway pay the cost. Commission Chair James Schlickau had been pushing for waiting until they have a more comprehensive plan for these types of signs for the entire county. In the end, all three commissioners agreed and the signs will go up. Bob Updegraff with Harley’s Bicycle Shop was there and spoke about the signs and told them he didn’t see a problem in raising the money.
The old highway doesn’t have near the traffic it once did, since the new four lane highway was put in place which makes it a perfect route for those who enjoy riding their bike in the country.
The commission as part of agreement with have those bike enthusiast want them to work with county planners on a more comprehensive plan for signs around the county. Deming tells us he has no idea how long it would take for such a plan to be completed.
The commission also approved making a section of 43rd between Plum and Lorraine a school zone. Apparently part of the street is in the city and part is in the county, so the district needed approval of both the city and the county for the zone to be put in place. This would be for the new Plum Creek Elementary School which was built this year for the Buhler School District.
Finally, the commission approved vacating a small portion of Longview Road between Olcott and Jordon Springs, because a bridge was damaged beyond repair by a sub-contractor for an oil company. The wooden bridge was was taken down.
Mike Murphy with the Silvia township was upset because he thought the bridge would be replaced, but the cost couldn’t be justified with the insurance barely covering the cost for removing the bridge. So, the commission agreed to vacate the road.