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Roeland Park council approves eminent-domain ordinances to secure easements for Roe Parkway and 51st Street projects
Summary
The council approved ordinances authorizing condemnation proceedings to acquire a small right-of-way and temporary construction easements for Roe Parkway and multiple permanent and temporary easements for 51st Street (to accommodate ADA-compliant sidewalks and ramps); council recorded at least one dissent on the 51st Street item.
Council voted to authorize staff to proceed with eminent-domain action to secure easements needed for two local street projects.
For the Roe Parkway connection, staff said one small piece of right-of-way and a temporary construction easement are required to link Roe Parkway's dead end to Roe Boulevard. The council moved and approved an ordinance directing the city to proceed to condemnation if necessary to acquire the easement.
For 51st Street, staff described a set of permanent sidewalk easements (to wrap a sidewalk and construct an ADA-accessible ramp) and a number of temporary construction easements. Staff said they will continue outreach to property owners to secure voluntary agreements but recommended authorizing condemnation to complete the project if owners decline. The council approved the ordinance; one council member recorded a nay but the mayor announced the ayes have it.
Both measures passed during the meeting and staff said letters notifying property owners would follow action.
Next steps: Staff will send letters informing property owners of council action, continue outreach to obtain voluntary easements, and initiate condemnation proceedings only if necessary.
