Keats roadway project bidding delayed while USDA review and remaining easements are resolved

Riley County planning staff updated the commission Nov. 6 on the Keats roadway project, saying engineering and bidding documents are ready but the project cannot go to bid until remaining easements are secured and USDA provides guidance.

Amanda Webb, planning director, told commissioners the county had 11 temporary easements and one permanent easement under active negotiation. County staff and the engineering team at BG have met with property owners and are attempting to get final signatures; the county’s ability to proceed to formal bid is contingent on USDA review because the project involves a USDA‑funded component.

Webb said Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) had already approved the project plans and bidding documents, but that USDA staff could not be reached during the federal government shutdown and the county did not yet have confirmation whether USDA would permit partial bidding while all easements were outstanding. Commissioners and staff discussed the practical risk that delayed easements would push the schedule and increase costs.

Staff said they have asked USDA whether a percentage of easements would permit proceeding to bid and noted BG and county staff are prepared to begin advertisement as soon as USDA gives the green light. Commissioners did not take formal action but directed staff to continue easement outreach and report back when USDA responds.