Pike’s trail may benefit Marion
Managing editor
Marion’s Safe Routes to Schools project will begin Feb. 22, weather permitting.
Replacement of existing sidewalks and construction of new sidewalks will begin on Lawrence Street, near Marion Elementary School, and continue to Elm Street, Marion Economic Development Director Doug Kjellin said. Residents affected by the construction will receive letters with information about the project.
Children are to take alternate routes during construction to avoid excavation and concrete work.
“We’re going to limit children traveling on any streets,” Kjellin said.
There will be two ramps on each sidewalk for wheelchair access.
Kansas Department of Transportation funds the majority of the project.
Pike trail may include Marion
A letter from the Pike National Historic Trail Association was received by Marion Chamber of Commerce, asking for support to authorize a feasibility study for the creation of the Pike National Historic Trail.
According to the association, Zebulon Pike was in Marion County Sept. 12 through 14, 1806 and camped near Marion.
The feasibility of a biking and hiking trail through Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, Colorado, New Mexico, Texas, Louisiana, and Mexico is being considered.
The council agreed to send a letter of support.
Progress being made on youth center
Work is progressing for Central Station on East Main Street, Marion. Eagle Communications has agreed to provide television and Internet services. A new concrete floor has been installed with more construction work planned.
Other city business
- A town hall meeting with Marion County Commissioner Dan Holub will be at 7:30 p.m. March 3 in the city building basement. The public is invited to attend to talk with county and city officials.
- City Administrator David Mayfield will meet with Kansas Power Pool Director Colin Whitely to discuss electrical rates.
- The council, City Attorney Dan Baldwin, Kjellin, and Mayfield met in closed session for 15 minutes for attorney-client privilege. There was no action when the council returned to open session.
The next council meeting will be at 4:30 p.m. Feb. 22 in the city building.