ICYMI: Willard Bridge loan agreement officially approved 

       An agreement authorizing a state loan to Shawnee County to help pay for a new Willard Bridge was signed today by Kansas Transportation Secretary Mike King.

      The agreement, signed during an event near the bridge, authorizes a loan of up to $8.5 million from the Kansas Department of Transportation to the county. The interest-free loan, which is to be repaid in annual installments of $850,000, will be combined with countywide sales tax revenues, $900,000 from Wabaunsee County and other funds to cover the costs of the $16 million replacement project.

Willard Bridge, left, and the pier construction that is underway.

       The Willard Bridge, which was built in 1955, spans the Kansas River between Shawnee and Wabaunsee counties. It is structurally deficient and has a posted weight limit that restricts school buses and other heavy vehicles from crossing over it. “KDOT recognizes this is an important connection between I-70, western Shawnee County and Wabaunsee County,” said Secretary King. “This is a great example of a partnership between KDOT and local governments to improve the public transportation system.”