A major highway reconstruction project along U.S. 59 and 169 between Welda and Garnett has some Garnett officials concerned because of the likely loss of business for several local retailers. According to K-DOT, early on traffic will be guided through the work by pilot cars. However, in later phases, the highway will be closed and traffic will have detours. Easy for locals to get around, but possibly rerouting regional traffic miles away from local stores and other businesses on Garnett’s highway strip.
At a recent Garnett City Commission meeting, City Manager Chris Weiner said the detours could be up to a year and will affect local businesses in a negative way. He encouraged everyone to shop local and give them extra support. Some suggestions, advanced planning, group advertising. Holding events prior to construction to draw attention to the area, and discuss ways to draw money from the construction promotions and a big grand finale event and ribbon cutting at the end. The project is scheduled for 345 work days and 40 clean up days. A start date has not been set.
