JUNCTION CITY (KSNT) – Federal officials have awarded Junction City a nearly $24 million grant for local infrastructure improvements.
Katherine O’Shea, public information officer and marketing director for Junction City, said in a press release the cash comes courtesy of the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) grant program. She said the grant marks one of the biggest federal infrastructure investments in the city’s history.
O’Shea said the funding will go towards improvements along Grant Avenue which connects Junction City to Fort Riley. The project includes raising and reconstructing the roadway into a four-lane corridor with a center two-way left-turn to improve traffic flow and reduce congestion. The project also includes the installation of upgraded intersections and bus turnouts to enhance safety and operation according to the City of Junction City.
The city will complete the final design by July 2027, and construction is anticipated to begin in January 2028 with project completion expected in October 2030. An economic analysis estimates the project enhancements will generate an approximate 152% return on investment over the next 30 years, according to the City of Junction City.
Additional improvements include pedestrian crossing signals at key locations, stormwater drainage improvements and upgraded roadway lighting and signage. The project will strengthen regional connectivity, improve public safety, enhance access to Fort Riley and create new opportunities for long-term economic growth and private investment throughout Junction City and Geary County, according to the City of Junction City.
by: Ben Nash
KSNT News
