Landowner agrees to sign easement but objects to planned approach ditch and guardrail on proposed Jewel Road bridge

Property owner (who identified his surname as Slitzbomb) told the commission he appreciates the funding for the planned Jewel Road bridge replacement but strongly objects to the engineer’s proposed approach — specifically a new, deep ditch and long guardrail that he said would reduce practical agricultural access and hinder parking and harvest operations. He said he has used the site for decades and that the proposed configuration would make it difficult to park semis and operate during harvest; he asked whether the ditch depth and guardrail length could be altered.

County staff and commissioners acknowledged the owner’s access concerns but stressed the project’s funding timeline: the county risks losing KDOT (or similarly administered) funds if it fails to accept the offer and proceed with easements. Staff said they will ask the engineering firm (Schwab & Eaton) and the funding agency whether small adjustments to the approach sections are feasible without jeopardizing the award. The county also discussed options such as a private landowner‑installed culvert for access if the design cannot be altered, but commissioners cautioned that ad hoc changes raise liability and maintenance questions.

The landowner agreed to return a notarized easement form so the county can meet clearance and plan-submission deadlines. Commissioners said they will monitor design development and advocate with the engineer and funding agency to minimize impacts where feasible. No construction work was authorized at the meeting beyond moving the easement and design process forward.