Commissioners say pipeline work is mandatory safety replacement; survey will determine scope

Geary County commissioners discussed a planned pipeline replacement project that county officials said is being driven by regulatory compliance, not local development aims.

Commissioner Trish Giordano told the board that pipeline operators have notified property owners and county officials that an older pipeline must be brought into compliance with the pipeline safety commission by 2028. Giordano said operators apologized for the public concern that followed the company’s outreach but explained they cannot determine the final scope of work until they complete field surveys. “This project is integral to the integrity of the service to Junction City, Grama Plaza, and Chapman,” Giordano said.

Giordano told the commission that the pipeline company sent a letter to affected property owners on April 16 and that operators have tried to contact property owners directly where possible. Commissioners reiterated that the company must complete a topographic and rights-of-way survey before it can specify easements, temporary work areas or permanent alignment changes.

County staff said the outreach was not part of new development activity but a mandatory safety-driven replacement. Commissioners said they will continue to monitor operator communications and follow up when the company has survey results and a defined plan to share with landowners.

What comes next: The county expects additional information after the pipeline operator completes its survey work. Commissioners and staff encouraged property owners with questions to watch for direct contact from the operator and noted the county will share updates as the company provides more details to local officials.