Hays – Week of May 24 2025
Air Service Cuts?; Runway Reconstruction Greenlit; Ailing 12th St Bridge; Jail Staff Vests; Sheriff Tech Grant
City Leaders Sound Alarm Over Proposed Cuts to Essential Air Service Funding
Major Runway Reconstruction Greenlit for Hays Regional Airport; Temporary Closures Planned
County Weighs Options for Ailing 12th Street Bridge Amidst School Traffic Concerns
County Approves Purchase of Protective Vests for Jail Staff
Sheriff's Office Seeks Grant for Major Technology Upgrades
City Leaders Sound Alarm Over Proposed Cuts to Essential Air Service Funding
A significant portion of the May 22nd Hays City Commission meeting was dedicated to the alarming prospect of federal budget cuts to the Essential Air Service (EAS) program, which could see funding slashed by half in 2026. Commissioners unanimously expressed grave concerns, stating such a reduction would be "absolutely devastating" for Hays and other Western Kansas communities, potentially eliminating commercial air service. The loss of EAS funding would not only impact travel but also jeopardize millions in federal grants for airport maintenance and upgrades, as these are often tied to commercial service status. Mayor Sandy Jacobs and commissioners reported outreach to federal legislators, noting Senator Jerry Moran's support for full funding and a positive response from Congressman Tracey Mann's office, while urging residents to voice their concerns to ensure the program's continuation. The potential economic fallout, including a drastic increase in local property taxes to cover lost subsidies, was highlighted as a critical issue for taxpayers.
City of Hays
Major Runway Reconstruction Greenlit for Hays Regional Airport; Temporary Closures Planned
The Hays City Commission unanimously approved a bid of nearly $6.7 million from Smoky Hill Construction LLC for the reconstruction of Runway 4-22 and a portion of Taxiway M at Hays Regional Airport. The project, crucial for addressing deteriorating pavement and accommodating larger aircraft, is substantially supported by federal funding, with the FAA covering 95% of the cost, leaving a local share of just over $330,000. Airport Director Jamie Salter detailed the project, noting the existing 22-23 year old runway was overloaded and suffering from issues like cracking and heaving. While the crosswind runway is reconstructed next year, the primary runway will face an estimated 21-day closure, likely mid-summer, a period significantly reduced from an initial five-week projection through careful planning. An additional 14-day period will require aircraft to "back taxi" on the main runway. Commissioners and Salter emphasized the importance of this project for the airport's long-term viability and the economic benefits tied to its commercial service.
City of Hays
County Weighs Options for Ailing 12th Street Bridge Amidst School Traffic Concerns
The 12th Street bridge, a structure dating back to the 1940s, was a major topic of discussion as commissioners grapple with its future. The debate intensified with new information about O’Loughlin Elementary School's plan to route the majority of its student drop-off and pickup traffic onto 12th Street starting in August 2026. This anticipated increase from roughly 336 vehicles per day to potentially include an additional 200+ school-related vehicles daily raises concerns about the already narrow bridge's lifespan and safety, particularly with existing pedestrian use. Commissioners discussed options ranging from a $3-5 million replacement to accommodate modern vehicles and pedestrian access, to closing the bridge. The bridge's potential closure had been considered to gain points for a grant application for the $4.4 million Salina River Bridge project. However, with the new school traffic data, the commission ultimately decided against including the 12th Street bridge closure in the current grant application, opting to gather more information and reassess traffic impact studies. The commission acknowledged the bridge will need significant work or replacement within the next 10 years, regardless.
Ellis County
County Approves Purchase of Protective Vests for Jail Staff
The Ellis County Commission unanimously approved the purchase of 16 Safariland armor vests and accessories for the detention center staff at a cost of $15,535.68. Ellis County Sheriff Scott J. Braun presented the request, highlighting the importance of protecting staff who work with individuals incarcerated for various reasons, noting a recent incident where detention officers were attacked. The funds for the vests were already allocated within the current year's capital budget. Sheriff Braun also mentioned that there's a possibility of partial reimbursement for the vests through a grant, though the exact amount is unclear.
Ellis County
Sheriff's Office Seeks Grant for Major Technology Upgrades
Commissioners were informed of a significant grant application submitted by the Ellis County Sheriff's Office through the COPS grant program to fund new equipment, primarily focusing on replacing aging in-car camera systems. Sheriff Braun explained that current car cameras are at the end of their life, with some systems no longer supported, forcing the department to source replacements from eBay. The proposed upgrade, totaling $326,690.12, aims to move all camera systems (jail, body cams, and in-car) to a single platform. This consolidation would reduce cloud storage costs and simplify video review. The grant also includes upgrading Cradlepoint internet connection devices in patrol cars to 5G capability and enhancing antennas. A notable feature of the new system would be the integration of card/tag readers in every patrol car, allowing for real-time checks for stolen vehicles or wanted persons. The Sheriff's Office is awaiting a decision on the grant application.
Ellis County
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