Commission accepts right-of-way dedication for Bennett’s 1st Subdivision

The Douglas County Board of Commissioners voted unanimously Jan. 7 to accept a right-of-way dedication associated with final plat 250023, Bennett’s 1st Subdivision, at the southeast corner of East 900 Road and North 1800 Road (County Route 438).

Ellie Mullins, City of Lawrence/Douglas County planner, said the final plat formalizes an existing roadway easement into county right-of-way as part of subdividing a larger parcel. The division would create an approximately 18.5‑acre Lot 1 intended for a landscape business; the right-of-way dedication matches the existing easement width and meets road-classification requirements.

Chad Boyd (county staff) explained the difference between rural roadway easements and platted right-of-way: when right-of-way is platted the land area identified becomes county property and the landowner’s deed will reflect the smaller parcel. ‘‘When right of way is platted through this process ... it actually becomes county property,’’ Boyd said, describing the deed and legal-description changes recorded on the plat.

Commissioners asked whether the dedication affects ownership and whether site-level requirements — including a fire-suppression plan and rural water-district review — have been satisfied. Planning staff said the plat includes conditions that require a fire-suppression plan and that the site plan review and any site-specific development approvals will return to the commission as required.

The board moved to accept the right-of-way dedication and the motion passed 5–0.