County Commission Approves Petition to Open Road to Landlocked Parcel

Jarah Cooper -

At the July 23, 2024 meeting, the County Commission approved a petition to open a road to a landlocked parcel owned by Elliott and Jennifer Schrader. The 17-acre parcel, located in a bend of the Saline River north of Salina, currently lacks clear access to a public road. After unsuccessful attempts to secure an access easement from neighboring property owners, Mr. Schrader prepared a petition under K.S.A. 68-117.

The Assistant County Engineer outlined the necessary steps and potential costs for the project. Key considerations include:

  1. Adherence to minimum standards for road design and construction.
  2. The possibility of requiring professional engineering plans due to the drainage challenges and the public nature of the road.
  3. An estimated cost of $67,500 for excavation and compaction, plus a $10,000 mobilization fee. Any additional surfacing would increase the overall cost.

The Commission has directed staff to proceed with notices pursuant to K.S.A. 68-101 et seq. Costs associated with the road construction will be borne by the petitioner. This decision marks a significant step towards providing the Schraders with the necessary access to their property.