TOPEKA, Kan. — Forty-six projects that will improve intersections and road deficiencies in Kansas cities have been selected for funding through two Kansas Department of Transportation programs.
Hutchinson is one of seventeen cities will receive a combined total of approximately $9 million in state funding under the Geometric Improvement (GI) program. And, the city is one of 29 that will receive a combined total of about $5.4 million under the City Connecting Links (KLINK) program, which funds improvements to state highways that extend through cities.
Under the GI program, a city contributes up to 25 percent of the project cost based on its population. Cities under 2,500 in population aren’t required to provide a match. GI projects typically improve drainage, capacity and intersections, add turning lanes and more.
KLINK projects involve maintenance work such as resurfacing and are funded up to $200,000.
“These programs are very popular with Kansas cities, and every year we receive many more requests for projects than we can fund,” said Kansas Transportation Secretary Mike King.
“As a result, funding for the GI program next year will be increased by $2 million, for a total annual commitment of $8 million. And, to catch up with inflation, the maximum state contribution per project under the KLINK program next year will go up 50 percent to $300,000.” The maximum state contribution for a GI project will be increased to $1 million.
Hutchinson under the GI project will receive $65,000 and under the KLINK program, $170,277.
The city will use the $65,000 to add a left turn lane for northbound traffic on K-61 at 4th Street. The $170,277 will be used to do a pavement overlay on K-61 between Lorraine and 11th.
Other area cities will also benefit with funds which includes McPherson getting $151,148, Lyons getting $200,000, Pratt, gets $160,800 and Sterling will receive $200,000.