Salina commission authorizes up to $11.2 million for five capital projects, including major road and trail work

The Salina City Commission voted unanimously on Jan. 26 to approve Resolution No. 26-8328, authorizing planning and future debt financing for five capital improvement projects with a total not-to-exceed authorization of $11,200,000.

Debbie Pack, the city’s director of finance, said the projects were included in the 2026–2030 capital improvement program and would be funded by debt if other sources are not available. The five projects and staff’s estimated costs are: Ohio Shilling intersection design and construction, $2.3 million; East Magnolia Road improvements including bridge replacement and a 10-foot hike-and-bike trail, $7.6 million; North Ohio decorative overpass painting, estimated $650,000–$1,000,000; painting and decorative work for the North Ohio overpass, $1.0 million; and runway improvements at Berkeley Family Recreation Area, $300,000.

Public works director Ron Marsh answered technical questions about pavement treatment for the Berkeley apron and said crews plan a 2‑inch milling overlay on the runway apron. Marsh said the overpass painting estimates ranged based on whether contractors could pressure-wash or had to hand-strip rust, producing a wide bid range.

A resident asked how the bridge work relates to a $22 million federal river project; staff clarified the river project includes multiple components and funding sources and that the East Magnolia design covers a wider set of corridor improvements than a single bridge.

The resolution grants staff authority to pursue temporary notes or general obligation bonds in the future; design and engineering contracts will return to commission for approval.

Next steps: Staff will issue RFPs for design and bring design contracts to the commission for project-specific approval and detailed budgets.