Terry Dickson

The meeting included a presentation on the accomplishments of the Kansas Infrastructure Hub related to the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA) grant opportunities and updates to the BIL Dashboard. Key discussion centered on applications for the Build Kansas Matching Grant Fund. Consensus was reached to approve applications from Franklin County for an Action Plan to reduce fatal crashes, the Flint Hills Regional Council, Inc. for a Regional Safety Action Plan, and the City of Basehor for implementing Safe Streets and Roads For All strategies. Another application from Franklin County for bridge construction planning was sent back pending additional information from the Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT). The Committee also requested information on canceled infrastructure projects, approved planning application progress, and the state's liability for awarded federal grants. Discussions included the possibility of funding additional years for the Build Kansas program and changes to the BIP discretionary grant program.

The committee meeting addressed various topics, including a presentation on cost share expectations for Build Kansas Fund applicants and Kansas Infrastructure Hub dashboards. The committee reviewed and provided consensus on multiple applications for the Build Kansas Matching Grant Fund, covering projects related to Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) and airport infrastructure improvements. Discussions involved local match exemptions, project completion rates following studies, and the allocation of funds between states for bi-state projects. The committee also discussed the benefits of providing technical assistance to communities and accessing grants for funding sources other than through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL).

The Safe Streets for All Action Plan for Valley Falls, Kansas, focuses on reducing traffic fatalities and serious injuries by prioritizing safety for all road users. It involves analyzing crash data, reviewing existing policies, and engaging the community to identify key areas of concern and recommend safety projects. The plan emphasizes infrastructure improvements, enhanced enforcement, and educational initiatives to create a safer transportation network.

The Southeast Kansas Comprehensive Safety Action Plan for Montgomery County focuses on reducing transportation safety risks and saving lives. Key areas of focus include roadway departures, intersection-related crashes, and unrestrained occupants. The plan emphasizes a comprehensive, data-driven approach, community collaboration, and the implementation of the Vision Zero resolution to eliminate fatal and serious injury crashes by 2050. It also addresses equity considerations to ensure safe transportation options for all community members.

The Cowley County Comprehensive Safety Action Plan (CSAP) focuses on eliminating fatalities and serious injuries from vehicular crashes for all road users. Key areas of emphasis include addressing intersections, distracted driving, and speeding vehicles. The plan outlines countermeasures to reduce conflicts at intersections, manage vehicle speeds, and address driver inattention through education and other means. It also prioritizes equity by focusing on underserved and under-resourced populations, aiming to create a comprehensive transportation infrastructure that meets the needs of all residents through transportation improvements, education, and community collaboration, with a goal of zero traffic deaths and serious injuries.