The Mid-America Regional Council (MARC), in cooperation with Johnson and Cass counties and the cities of Overland Park, Olathe and Belton, has identified the need to examine the transportation corridor between U.S. 69 in Kansas and Holmes Road in Missouri (connecting to a previously planned relocation of Missouri Highway 58 that will extend to U.S. 71).

The South Metro Connection Study will involve an area with general limits of U.S. 69 on the west, 175th Street on the north, Holmes Road on the east, and 199th Street on the south.

The goal of the study is to develop a plan for some type of future east/west connection between U.S. 69 and U.S. 71. A cursory examination will be made from U.S. 69 westward to Interstate 35 to make sure the solution does not preclude the ability to continue a facility west toward I-35.

HNTB, the consulting engineering firm, will conduct the work for the study under the direction of MARC and a study team, consisting of representatives from MARC; Johnson and Cass Counties; the Federal Highway Administration, Kansas Division; the Kansas Department of Transportation; the Missouri Department of Transportation; and the cities of Overland Park, Olathe and Belton.

A Partnership Board has been established. It is made up of various representatives, including residents/landowners in and near the study area, public officials, community leaders, business leaders and special interest groups. The board will provide input, enhance communication, and be a sounding board for the study team.

A more detailed description of the study can be viewed online.

A calendar of upcoming meetings also is available on the site.

If you have any questions about the study, please contact Don Schoenborn, the lead planner for MARC, at 816/474-4240.