Kansas officials finalize funding for County Route 30 project with federal support

The Leavenworth County Work Session held on April 9, 2025, focused on the status of ongoing infrastructure projects and funding updates. Key discussions highlighted the complexities surrounding the County Route 30 project, which has faced delays due to federal regulations and the need for extensive environmental reviews.

The project, which stretches from Hollingsworth to Dempsey, has received earmarked funding of $2 million from Senator Moran's office, along with an additional $975,000 from the Kansas cost share grant. However, the project has been subject to federal requirements, necessitating updates to engineering plans and compliance with various environmental assessments. As a result, the anticipated bidding date has shifted, with construction now scheduled to begin on May 21, 2025.

County officials noted that the project has been in development since 2018 and has encountered challenges due to new wildlife protection regulations, particularly concerning the northern long-eared bat. This has required careful tree removal along the project route, complicating the timeline further.

Looking ahead, the county has applied for an additional $4 million earmark for the next phase of the County Route 30 project, which is included in the federal appropriations bill for 2025. However, uncertainty remains as the federal budget has not yet been approved, and the county is currently operating under a continuing budget from 2024.

In total, the county has successfully secured approximately $65 million for various infrastructure projects over the past five years, with ongoing efforts to apply for additional grants. Officials emphasized the importance of completing current projects to enhance eligibility for future funding opportunities.

The meeting underscored the county's commitment to advancing infrastructure while navigating the complexities of federal funding and regulatory requirements. As projects progress, officials remain optimistic about securing necessary funding and completing essential road improvements for the community.