The City of Spring Hill, in coordination with the Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT), is moving forward with plans to improve the intersection of 191st Street and U.S. Highway 169/K-7, including the installation of a new traffic signal.
This week, the final version of the intersection’s engineering study will be submitted to KDOT. The study evaluates the overall design needs of the intersection including geometry, turn lanes, and traffic flow — based not only on current conditions but also projected community growth.
To help keep the project on track, preliminary design work is already underway. Once the design is complete, the project will be brought to the Governing Body for discussion and approval. Pending approval, the City is prepared to move forward with a contract by fall 2025 to begin construction.
Building with the future in mind
The planned improvements at 191st Street and US 169/K-7 is more than just a traffic signal; it's about building a comprehensive, well-functioning intersection that can handle increasing traffic volumes and support continued growth in the region.
This process also involves a detailed look below the surface. Utility locations, stormwater needs, and underground infrastructure must all be factored into the design. Additionally, plans must include how traffic — including residents, commuters, and emergency vehicles — will move safely and efficiently through the area while work is underway.
“Every step of the way, we’re thinking not just about what’s being built, but about the people it will serve — both during construction and long after it’s complete,” said City Administrator Lane Massey.
By carefully planning and addressing all aspects of the project, the City aims to make a lasting improvement without creating unexpected costs, delays, or new challenges for the future.
Funding for improvements
In July 2024, the Governing Body approved a design services task order with engineering firm Lamp Rynearson. The firm also developed a $3 million construction estimate, which was submitted as part of a federal funding request. The City was not selected for Congressional funding, however, staff and council included the project in the 2025 Capital Improvement Plan in September 2024, with the foresight to avoid delays if the project did not receive funding.
To further support the project, the City is pursuing additional funding opportunities available through the state.
How to stay engaged and provide input
This intersection was identified as a high-priority location through Safe Streets for All (SS4A) — a project that gathers crash data and public feedback to develop the City’s Comprehensive Safety Action Plan (CSAP). The CSAP helps guide transportation safety improvements and positions Spring Hill for future grant opportunities.
While planning for this intersection began before the SS4A public engagement phase, community input continues to help align priorities between the City and partnering transportation entities. Feedback from residents supports the planning process, provides a clearer picture of day-to-day experiences, and helps prioritize areas of concern.
We encourage residents to continue sharing their insights — not only about this intersection, but across the community. There are several ways to get involved:
- CSAP Public Input: Residents can still participate in the SS4A engagement process to help shape the City's safety priorities in all areas of the city.
- Capital Improvement Projects Citizen’s Proposal Form: Submit ideas for future infrastructure improvements directly to the City.
- City Council Meetings: Regular updates are shared during Council meetings, which are live streamed and available for replay.