The Wichita City Council has approved another phase of design work for the $36 million Bleckley Drive drainage improvement project in east Wichita.
Phase 1 of channel improvements from Kellogg to Waterman is substantially complete. Tuesday's agreement helps with the design work and utility relocation on phases 2 and 3 of the project, from Waterman to Elm, a block north of Central.
Earlier in the meeting, the council unanimously voted to approve eminent domain action on 23 parcels of land in the project footprint. So far, the city has been unable to reach an agreement with those homeowners on temporary construction easements and some permanent utility and drainage easements. The city will build temporary roads so homeowners can access their homes during construction. Fire officials confirm the 5” thick asphalt will handle the weight of ambulances and squad trucks, but not larger fire equipment.
Construction should be completed by 2029.
The city of Wichita will begin design work on various projects across town.
One of those projects includes the Mosley Bridge over Chisholm Creek, along 21st Street North, located west of I-135. The city says the bridge needs repairs.
The city will also have design plans made for the Kellogg and Seneca intersection. The area has a high rate of crashes and the city will work with KDOT to improve the intersection.
The council also approved their 2027 Sidewalk repair program, with a budget of $1.2 million next year.
