Commission defers vote on tax incentives for proposed VA clinic

City urges participation in income survey to secure grant eligibility

Commission discusses potential for city-facilitated warming shelters

City pursues federal funding for major Grant Avenue reconstruction

Trooper Gate Bridge repairs move forward

Sewer extension approved for West Eighth Street and Rucker Road

Staff presents $1.3 million utility expansion plan near airport

Commission defers vote on tax incentives for proposed VA clinic

JUNCTION CITY, Kan. — The Junction City Commission took no action on a request from U.S. Federal Properties for tax incentives regarding a proposed 51,000-square-foot Veterans Affairs clinic. The developer, one of two finalists vying for the VA contract, requested a 10-year property tax abatement and a payment in lieu of taxes agreement of $40,000 annually. Commissioners opted to delay a decision until the VA selects a winning bid, noting that Highland Enterprises has proposed purchasing the former Advanced Call Center Technologies building, a move that would eliminate approximately $800,000 in city debt.

City urges participation in income survey to secure grant eligibility

JUNCTION CITY, Kan. — City officials urged residents to participate in an ongoing low-to-moderate income survey, which is critical for the city's eligibility for Community Development Block Grants. Currently, census data shows the city at 42% LMI, below the 51% threshold required for certain infrastructure funding. A strong response rate to the random-sample survey could allow the city to challenge the census data and qualify for up to $4 million annually in funds for streets, sidewalks and community buildings.

Commission discusses potential for city-facilitated warming shelters

JUNCTION CITY, Kan. — During discussion of the Hazard Mitigation Plan, the commission addressed the need for designated warming and cooling shelters in the community. One commissioner inquired if the mitigation plan could facilitate the identification and preparation of a city building for such use, noting that current efforts are largely led by nonprofits. Geary County Emergency Management Director Garry Berges clarified that while the plan covers federal emergency directives, local shelter initiatives would require a separate city policy decision.

City pursues federal funding for major Grant Avenue reconstruction

JUNCTION CITY, Kan. — The city is pursuing federal BUILD grant funding to reconstruct Grant Avenue. The multimillion-dollar project aims to raise the roadbed out of the 100-year floodplain to prevent closures during heavy rains and improve drainage. The proposed design includes replacing the center median with a crowned roadway, adding multiuse paths for pedestrians and installing a multilane roundabout at the Washington Street intersection to improve safety and traffic flow.

Trooper Gate Bridge repairs move forward

JUNCTION CITY, Kan. — The city has secured a cost-share grant from the Kansas Department of Transportation to assist with repairs to the Trooper Gate Bridge. The city is responsible for a $329,000 match for the project, which is expected to be advertised for bid in mid-February. While the repairs address structural issues, city staff clarified that the reopening of the gate itself remains at the discretion of Fort Riley authorities.

Sewer extension approved for West Eighth Street and Rucker Road

JUNCTION CITY, Kan. — The commission approved a motion to extend utility services to properties along Old Highway 40, West Eighth Street and Rucker Road. The project, estimated to cost $334,000, will connect several properties to the city's sewer system, linking lines from West Eighth Street to the interceptor at Rucker Road. This infrastructure expansion is intended to support current property owners and facilitate future development in the area.

Staff presents $1.3 million utility expansion plan near airport

JUNCTION CITY, Kan. — City staff presented a preliminary plan for a $1.3 million extension of water, sewer and storm drainage along Elmdale Road and K-57. The project is designed to service the new Bayer Construction headquarters and other businesses in the area that currently rely on wells and septic systems. The proposal also includes extending a walking trail near the animal shelter to connect with 21st Street. Commissioners did not take a vote on the project.

Found a mistake? Have a news tip or feedback to share? Contact our newsroom using the button below:

Contact Us