The Kansas Department of Transportation has started an online survey to gather information about driving experiences along U.S. Highway 50, which runs through Newton.
The survey is part of a study KDOT is conducting of the passing lanes along the highway.
Completed surveys will be accepted through June 30, 2011.
The survey is available at http://ktoc.net.
“We’re studying a corridor over 100 miles in length that encompasses five counties from Emporia to Hutchinson,” said Steve King, study project manager. “This presents a number of inherent challenges when it comes to gathering input from the public. We believe this electronic survey will help us gain information we would otherwise not be able to obtain.”
Information gained through the survey will be studied by HDR Inc. of Kansas City, KDOT’s consultant on the $250,000 study.
While there are no funds available for constructing a four-lane highway, there is a potential to improve or add passing lanes along the route if the study identifies priorities that could be addressed when or if funding becomes available, a KDOT news release stated.
The study is expected to take about 18 to 24 months to complete.
Any future improvements along U.S. 50 would be designed to address the volume of traffic on the road and viable passing opportunities.
Additional opportunities for public input will be pursued with the establishment of a toll-free call-in number, interviews with the trucking industry and information presented at local officials meetings.
Those with questions about the survey or project should call Chris Hess, KDOT public involvement liaison, at (877) 550-5368 or David Greiser, north central public affairs manager, at (785) 823-3754.
