Ottawa adopts $29.955 million 2025–2029 CIP, highlights sewer, airport and sidewalk projects

The Ottawa City Commission unanimously approved its 2025–2029 Capital Improvement Program (CIP) on Sept. 4, adopting a multi‑year plan programmed for $29,955,000 in expenditures.

Director Landis presented the CIP and stressed that much of the programed total will come from non‑general‑fund sources — including utility funds and state and federal grants such as FAA and Kansas DOT programs — with a portion possibly financed through long‑term debt when appropriate. Key infrastructure and utility projects listed in the plan include a Westside Sewer Interceptor, the electric system conversion project, annual water main and line replacements, the Pin Oak pump station replacement and a river‑crossing circuit rebuild. Public‑safety and quality‑of‑life projects include a Fifteenth & Main traffic signal replacement, multiple sidewalk projects (Eleventh Street, Princeton Circle) and preliminary planning for an aquatic center. Economic‑development items include airport taxiway reconstruction, T‑hangar construction and a maintenance hangar project.

Landis told commissioners the CIP was reviewed by the Planning Commission (which found it in conformance with Ottawa’s comprehensive plan) and that the plan seeks to leverage grants and external funding to maximize investment while limiting general‑fund impacts. The commission moved, seconded and approved the resolution adopting the CIP by unanimous roll call.

The CIP provides a multi‑year framework for project delivery and positions the city to apply for external grants and coordinate utility and capital schedules with available funding.