U.S. 56 Expansion Near Great Bend Set for 2030: Key Developments
URGENT UPDATE: Significant improvements are on the horizon for U.S. 56, with plans to transform the highway into a four-lane roadway by 2030. The Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) has partnered with the Barton County Commission to expand U.S. 56 east of Great Bend, a move expected to enhance safety and promote regional growth.
The expansion covers a two-mile stretch from U.S. 56 to the K-156 junction, known as Doonan Corner. The estimated cost for this project is $18 million. In a recent meeting, the Barton County Commission approved a crucial agreement with KDOT, outlining shared responsibilities and financial commitments for the future construction.
County Engineer Barry McManaman emphasized the importance of this expansion, stating, “The agreement specifies future maintenance and administrative responsibilities for the relocated local road connections that will be constructed.” The county will cover a 10% local match, amounting to $1.8 million, through an innovative partnership that credits prior roadwork instead of a direct payment.
The proposed improvements include adding two new lanes, reconstructing existing lanes into a divided expressway, and enhancing the K-156 intersection with a recommended “unsignalized” “Green T” layout. To ensure safety, three existing access points will be removed, including the entrance at the former site of the Kiowa Kitchen restaurant.
This project is a response to ongoing discussions that began in 2019. The need for an upgraded highway was confirmed during a public open house attended by local officials in 2020. As project costs have risen, Commission Chair Tricia Schlessiger noted, “This agreement would cap what we have to contribute. Even if their construction costs go up, they wouldn’t be asking us to contribute any more.”
This expansion is not just a logistical improvement; it represents a critical step toward community growth. Commissioner Shawn Hutchinson remarked on the importance of the highway for local development, stating, “The only way to lower property taxes is to grow our population.” The expanded U.S. 56 will play a vital role in attracting new residents and businesses.
The project is currently in the early design phase and is not yet funded for construction. However, right-of-way acquisition is set to begin closer to the project’s start date, with bid letting planned for 2030.
As local officials and residents continue to advocate for this high-priority project, it stands as a testament to the region’s commitment to enhancing infrastructure and fostering economic growth. Stay tuned for more updates as this pivotal initiative progresses.
