On Oct. 24, the Courtland City Council hosted a special meeting to discuss the addition of turning lanes on U.S. Highway 36, a crucial infastruc-ture enhancement in preparation for the opening of the Central Valley Ag (CVA) grain handing facility known as the Courtland Hub. The Hub is a shuttle train loading facility served by the Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railway located near the Courtland turnoff of Highway 36.
The Oct. 31 issue of the Courtland Journal reported invitations were extended to various community and state representatives but the Kansas Department of Transportation was notably absent despite its involvement being essential to the project’ s implementation.
In attendance were city council members. Doug Garman, Republic County commissioner, Lisa Moser from the Kansas House of Representatives, Bret Graurholtz of the Kansas Corn Growers Association, Sara Moravec from CVA, Raymond Raney, Republic County emergency response director, and Levy Whitley, Republic County EMS director. In addition there 46 citizens eager to learn more about the plans and to express their opinions.
Robin Carlson, Courtland mayor, initiated the meeting with a statement of the importance of advancing infrastructure to accomomodate growth He said, “We’re facing exciting development opportunities and our roads must reflect the needs of our growing community. The turning lanes are a top priority to ensure both safety and efficient traffic flow as CVA’s operations expand.”
The absence of KDOT representatives was noted as their involvement is essential for design, funding and scheduling. Despite KDOT’s absence, the council discussed collarboration with the department in future meetings to address the necessary approvals and technical details for adding turning lanes on Highway 36.
Discussions underscored the safety and response needs associated with the project. Raymond Raney emphasized the impact of turning lanes on emergency series. “Turning lanes will reduce the number of incidents in a county where resources can already be stretched thin, especially if there would be multiple incidents simultaneously.
Larry Whitley reiterated the important of infrastructure improvements for safe, efficient emergency access. “Adding turning lanes is about enhancing our response capability, ensuring that residents receive timely assistance in emergencies,” Whitley added.
Doug Garman voiceed Republic County’s full support for the project, while Rep. Moser pledged to continue to pursue state channels to help bring the project to fruition.
During public comments, residents voiced their support, with some inquiring about anticipated timelines and the scope of the work.
The council closed the meeting by committing to follow up with all entities involved for further discussion, aiming to secure necessary support and expedite the project timeline.
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