Marina
The City Commission is gearing up to take significant steps in advancing the Overlander Road widening project during its upcoming meeting on Wednesday.
The project aims to transform the existing two-lane road with open ditches into a three-lane roadway, featuring a center turn lane, curb, gutter, and storm sewer improvements.
Approval of Material Testing and Funding Breakdown
The first agenda item on the table seeks approval for construction material testing by Kaw Valley Engineering, estimated at $35,090. The financing for the project will come from multiple sources:
- $2.5 million from the Kansas Department of Transportation’s Economic Development Plan,
- Up to $1 million from the City’s Federal Fund Exchange Dollars, and
- The remainder through a bond issuance.
This multi-source funding approach reflects the city’s commitment to supporting infrastructure growth while leveraging available state and federal resources.
Infrastructure Enhancements and Construction Guidelines
As part of the Overlander Road improvements, work will include rock subgrade, concrete pavement, and storm sewer and waterline upgrades. Construction will occur over the existing Magellan Pipeline, with specific safety and engineering standards in place.
A Letter of No Objection outlines strict construction requirements, including:
- Defined pavement thickness and reinforced steel for driveway entrances,
- Minimum clearance between the pipeline and utilities, and
- Mandatory higher insurance coverage for the construction contractor, valid for two years after project completion.
Support for Frontier Development Group’s Housing Initiative
In addition to infrastructure, the Frontier Development Group, known for redeveloping the Kansas Avenue School, will request a resolution of support for its application to the Kansas Housing Investor Tax Credit (KHITC) program.
The developer previously secured 74 KHITC units between 2023 and 2024 and gained prior approval to apply for a Moderate Income Housing grant in September. This continued backing from the City Commission signals support for affordable and moderate-income housing development.
Annexation Proposal Under Review
The Commission will also discuss a request to the Lyon County Board of Commissioners concerning the annexation of property along 800 Road 160. Although the property borders existing city limits, island annexation laws prevent automatic inclusion.
For annexation to move forward, Lyon County Commissioners must determine that the request will not hinder future growth or development of nearby areas or other municipalities within the county.
Study Session Highlights
During the study session, City Commissioners will address several key topics, including:
- A presentation on nuclear energy by State Representative Mark Schreiber.
- Review of a policy proposal for legal analysis of complex or ambiguous issues.
- Appointment of Commissioners for Joint Traffic Safety Committee interviews.
- Engineering Department updates on ongoing and upcoming projects.
- A report by Dean Grant, Director of Public Works, detailing water main breaks over the past year.
The upcoming City Commission meeting promises to be a crucial step toward urban development and infrastructure enhancement in the region.
With discussions on road expansion, housing investment, and annexation, the Commission continues to prioritize sustainable growth and community advancement for the city’s future.