OTTAWA – Gov. Mark Parkinson and transportation secretary Deb Miller formally opened of the new U.S. 59 Wednesday morningin a ceremony at American Eagle Outfitters distribution center near the new highway. Parkinson said the opening of the new expressway is an example of good long-range planning. Kansas enjoys some of the best highways and public education in the country, while paying relatively low taxes and that’s because of good long-range planning and the political will to follow through, Parkinson said. Legislators had the courage to raise revenue that funded two transportation bills that included the new U.S. 59, he said. Several local dignitaries, public and business officials attended the ceremony. Ottawa City Commissioner Gene Ramsey is one of the original members of a local group that has spent about 15 years trying to make the new highway a reality. He said he knew it would happen but wasn’t sure when. Ramsey said he was worried by the heavy opposition to the proposed highway and that it would kill it. The new four-lane U.S. 59 narrows down into the old two-lane 59 north of the county line. Miller said all of the Douglas County right-of-way for the new highway has been secured and she says she expects the Douglas County segment to be built and opened in two years.
Thursday, June 17, 5 a.m.
