Johnson County Public Works on Jan. 9 presented Resolution 004‑25 seeking authorization to acquire rights of way and easements by condemnation for the Black Bob Road Safety Improvement Project between 153rd Terrace and 159th Street.

Ryan Sims, Public Works, said the county has been negotiating right-of-way since May 2024 and that five of eight property owners have accepted the county’s offers. He said negotiations continue with the remaining owners but that utility relocations require three to four months of lead time before road construction can start. The county plans to construct the safety improvements this summer and urged board authorization of the condemnation resolution to preserve the project schedule if negotiations are unsuccessful.

Sims said the project is a partnership with the City of Olathe, which will administer the construction. Commissioners thanked staff for the update and encouraged continued negotiations in hopes condemnation will not be necessary. Commissioner Ashcraft requested an offline follow-up before next week.

The item was presented at the Jan. 9 agenda review for placement on the Jan. 16 business session; no formal vote occurred at the Jan. 9 meeting.