Build Kansas panel advises awards for Safe Streets grants and airport projects; denies county match exemptions

Jason Fitzell, interim executive director of the Kansas Infrastructure Hub, presented the committee with a packet of applications and asked for final advice on a set of Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) planning, demonstration and implementation grants and several airport infrastructure grant requests. Fitzell summarized the state dashboard and walked members through individual applications before the committee voted on approvals and motions regarding match waivers.

The committee advised approval of multiple SS4A applications and a group of airport infrastructure projects but rejected—or asked for more detail on—requests for exemptions from the committee's suggested local match for two multi-jurisdictional applicants.

Why it matters: SS4A funding supports roadway safety planning, demonstration projects and implementation measures intended to reduce fatalities and serious injuries on streets. The Build Kansas hub acts as the state's screening and recommendation body before applications or award administration proceeds to federal and state channels. Local-match requirements are intended to ensure community commitment and to leverage state dollars.

Key approvals and committee direction

- The committee advised approval of SS4A requests for a mix of planning/demonstration and implementation projects across dozens of small cities and counties. Notable SS4A requests presented and advanced for final advice included: - City of Douglas (application 141): $54,150 for a CSAP-focused package to address pedestrian access and crossings on Highway 77; approved by the committee. - City of Halstead (application 147): $47,500 for a CSAP covering town corridors with a history of crashes; approved. - City of Coffeyville (application noted in packet): $30,000 for a US-166…