Kansas County Advances Twentieth Road Repairs Amid KDOT Concerns Over Airport Access

During the Coffey County government meeting on August 18, 2025, officials discussed significant updates regarding the ongoing road repair projects, particularly focusing on Twentieth Road and its connection to local infrastructure, including the airport.

The meeting began with clarification on the naming of Twentieth Road, which has often been mistakenly referred to as Twentieth Street. This distinction is important as the county's terminology aligns with its infrastructure classification. The status of the road repair was a primary topic, with officials confirming that Phase 1 of the project is progressing well. A preconstruction meeting for Phase 2 was held the previous week, and minor modifications to the design plans are underway to address concerns raised by the Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) regarding drainage issues towards Highway 75.

Officials expressed confidence that these adjustments would not delay the overall project timeline. They emphasized the importance of ensuring compliance with KDOT's requirements to avoid complications. Additionally, discussions included the airport's entrance size, which KDOT has questioned in light of anticipated increased traffic. The county is appealing KDOT's concerns, believing the current design is adequate.

The conversation also touched on potential future developments, including the possibility of a turning lane if traffic volumes increase significantly. Officials noted that if such changes are necessary, they would seek funding through KDOT's cost-share program, which has been utilized successfully in the past.

The meeting concluded with a forward-looking perspective on economic development in the region. Officials acknowledged the strategic importance of the airport and surrounding infrastructure, suggesting that ongoing improvements could enhance traffic flow and support future growth. They underscored the county's commitment to proactive planning, which is essential for accommodating potential changes in traffic patterns and infrastructure needs.

Overall, the discussions highlighted the county's dedication to maintaining and improving its roadways and infrastructure, ensuring they meet the demands of a growing community while addressing regulatory concerns. As the project moves forward, officials remain optimistic about its impact on local economic development and connectivity.