TOPEKA , Kan. — Governor Laura Kelly announced today that nearly $31.5 million will be awarded for 31 projects in communities across Kansas to create safer, more walkable and bike-friendly routes through the Transportation Alternatives (TA) Program.
“This investment is more than just improving infrastructure – it’s about strengthening the safety, accessibility, and mobility of our communities,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “I’m pleased the state can offer the support needed to help advance these projects.”
The competitive grant program, administered by the Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) and provided by the Federal Highway Administration, is currently the primary source of KDOT funding for bicycle and pedestrian projects statewide, including Safe Routes to School. The program also funds transportation projects of a historical nature and scenic and environmental projects, including Main Street beautification projects.
Since 2019, under the Kelly administration’s bipartisan Eisenhower Legacy Transportation Program, also known as IKE, KDOT has awarded more than $95 million for 122 TA projects, benefiting both urban and rural communities.
Transportation Secretary Calvin Reed said this year’s announcement marks the largest grant funding the state has awarded since the launch of the federal program.
“By partnering with local communities, we can enhance our state’s transportation infrastructure while improving accessibility and fostering more connected neighborhoods,” Secretary Reed said.
The program requires a 20 percent local match of the project cost. The non-federal required share will consist of $2.79 million in local matching funds and $5.15 million in KDOT state funding.
The Hutch Post area projects awarded include:
Central Kansas Conservancy for the Sunflower Santa Fe Trail – Canton KS in the amount of $649,485.60.
City of McPherson for the McPherson Ave A Trail Phase III in the amount of $849,913.60
City of Hutchinson for the Downtown Hutchinson Pedestrian Safety and Access Improvements in the amount of $908,800.00.
City of Sedgwick for the Commercial Avenue Pedestrian Access and Streetscape Improvements in the amount of $215,384.80.
City of South Hutchinson for the South Hutchinson Pedestrian Connectivity Project in the amount of $273,600.00.