TOPEKA, Kan. — Governor Laura Kelly announced Thursday that the Kansas Department of Transportation has received over $26 million in federal funding to improve rural road infrastructure in Hamilton and Edwards counties.
“This significant investment will transform rural infrastructure in southwest Kansas by improving accessibility for residents and businesses,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “We thank the U.S. Department of Transportation for recognizing the importance of this project to Kansas.”
Awarded through the Rural Surface Transportation Grant Program, the funding will support the replacement of 14.8 miles of dirt roads with paved surfaces, incorporating stormwater management systems, improved sight distances, and enhanced road shoulders in Hamilton and Edwards counties to improve mobility for the region’s developing dairy industry.
“The Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) is proud to have a role in delivering these projects that improve mobility and support local industries,” said Transportation Secretary Calvin Reed. “By addressing long-standing transportation issues in the region, we can help southwest Kansas thrive and remain competitive.”
The Dairy Farms and Dirt Roads: Bringing Supply Chain Infrastructure to Southwest Kansas Project, estimated to cost $33.4 million in total, aims to bolster the region’s agricultural supply chain by enhancing road durability and efficiency.
“This investment represents a meaningful step forward for the rural communities in our region, fostering growth and opportunity where it’s needed most,” said House Transportation Chairman Shannon Francis, who represents District 125.
Upgrades to 8.5 miles in Edwards County will improve county roads servicing two dairy facilities in the area. This includes upgrades along O Road between 200th Avenue and 210th Avenue. Additional work will enhance pavement on 180th Avenue and 210th Avenue.
“Modernizing our roads provides reliable access for everyone, supporting both daily life and boosting local commerce,” said Edwards County Commission Chair Mica Schnoebelen. “These infrastructure upgrades are a lifeline for rural Kansans, and we’re grateful to Senator Jerry Moran, Senator Roger Marshall, Lieutenant Governor David Toland, and KDOT for their support in securing this grant.”
In Hamilton County, the road surface transportation project will improve 6.3 miles that support several businesses including two existing dairies, Southwest Plains Dairy and Frontier Dairy. The project will pave a loop of existing dirt roads with concrete surfacing.
“Improved infrastructure strengthens our communities and will make a real difference for southwest Kansas, specifically Hamilton County and our residents and agricultural economy,” said Hamilton County Commission Vice Chair Andy Coleman.
The funding totals $26.698 million.