The Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) announced this week that it plans to renew $5 million in funding for the Kansas Local Bridge Improvement Program.
Of the roughly 19,000 bridges on Kansas’ local road systems, approximately 20 percent – or 3,800 bridges – are in poor condition or are unable to meet current weight and vehicle requirements.
Under the program, cities and counties can apply for up to $150,000 in state funds meant to help replace or rehabilitate bridges. Bridges are eligible so long as they are between 20 and 50 feet, see less than 100 vehicles in daily traffic and be currently rated as deficient. The latter represents around 20 percent of the state’s bridges.
“Kansas’ local road system is critical for getting people and goods where they need to go,” Gov. Laura Kelly said. “I’m pleased to see state and local government working together and combining resources to replace aging infrastructure — creating healthier communities and economies.”
The original program was created in 2014. The program’s reinstatement was recommended by the Joint Legislative Vision Task Force and is now funded in part by a $216 million sales tax. Beyond the $150,000 previously mentioned, cities and counties can potentially gain another $50,000 if they close deficient bridges. Local jurisdictions must match at least 10 percent of awarded funds, however.
“The counties are excited and appreciative of this new bridge replacement program,” Justin Mader, Saline County Engineer and president of the Kansas County Highway Association, said. “It will be good for agriculture, good for safety, will put construction workers to work and boost the Kansas economy while building and rehabilitating bridges that will benefit Kansas for decades into the future.”
Applications for funding will be accepted through mid-September, to be followed by project selection in October.