The Salina City Commission unanimously approved an agreement with Union Pacific Railroad for the Magnolia Trail pedestrian crossings at a cost of $241,397, plus additional railroad flagging expenses and annual maintenance payments of $805.
The project, presented by City Engineer Jim Kowach at Monday's commission meeting, involves converting a portion of the sidewalk on the south side of Magnolia Road into a multi-use path and extending it where sidewalks currently don't exist. The plan includes widening a box culvert located approximately halfway between the railroad tracks and Ninth Street to accommodate a 10-foot path that will stretch from Ninth Street all the way to Ohio Street on the south side.
Kowach explained that the city received a transportation alternative grant in 2021 for the project, which was initially estimated to cost between $500,000 and $600,000. However, due to rising construction costs and additional requirements imposed by Union Pacific Railroad, the current project cost has increased to approximately $800,000.
A significant portion of the cost increase came from the railroad's requirements regarding the pedestrian crossings. According to Kowach, the railroad determined that the existing sidewalks encroach on railroad right-of-way, requiring redesign of the pedestrian crossings.
"The railroad asked us to redesign it," Kowach said. "Move the railroad crossing at a 90-degree [angle] north of the intersection."
The railroad is also requiring replacement of tracks, rail, and ballast between the crossings, which turned what was estimated to be a "$20,000 or $30,000 pedestrian crossing" into a much more expensive component.
Despite the increased costs, Kowach noted that the project remains a priority as it was identified as a "hot spot" in the city's Safe Streets for All program. The path will connect a park, school, food sources, and shopping opportunities for pedestrians and cyclists.
The city has already invested approximately $122,000 in the project, including $76,000 for design fees for the box culvert, $15,000 for the railroad to review plans, and $31,000 to purchase small pieces of right-of-way to expand the trail.
The agreement includes a provision that the annual maintenance payments of $85 will be subject to Kansas cash basis and budget laws, a point that City Attorney Greg Bengston confirmed would be included in the final agreement.
The commission voted 5-0 to approve the agreement, authorizing the interim city manager to execute it with Union Pacific Railroad.
