The City of Belle Plaine is partnering with Friends University on an exciting revitalization project that reflects our community's vision for the future. This collaboration focuses on reimagining key areas of Belle Plaine, including downtown, Watson Park, and the historic water tower.
Community participation is at the heart of this initiative. Residents of all ages are encouraged to share their ideas, voice their concerns, and help shape the future of our town. The project will officially kick off in January, so stay tuned for opportunities to get involved and make your voice heard as we work together to create vibrant, welcoming spaces for everyone!
Public Announcement: Water System Improvements Underway
We are excited to announce a series of critical water system improvements for the City of Belle Plaine. These projects, made possible through funding partnerships with USDA, KDHE, and CDBG, will enhance our water infrastructure to better serve the community. Below are the project details:
Bid Package 1: Water Supply Improvements
Contractor: McPherson Backhoe, Inc.
Total Contract Price: $511,423.82 (Contract A) and $569,869.00 (Contract B)
Scope: Construction of wells, a supply line to the nitrate plant, and the main distribution line.
Notice to Proceed (NTP): October 7, 2024
Final Completion: June 4, 2025
Bid Package 2: Water Treatment Plant
Contractor: APAC, Kansas, Inc. – Shears Division
Total Contract Price: $3,998,185.00
Scope: Construction of the nitrate plant, fire hydrants, valves, and distribution lines throughout the community.
Notice to Proceed (NTP): October 21, 2024
Final Completion: March 30, 2026
Bid Package 3: Water Tower
Contractor: Caldwell
Total Contract Price: $1,392,400.00
Scope: Construction of a new water tower.
Notice to Proceed (NTP): October 21, 2024
Final Completion: October 21, 2025
Important Notes:
· Start dates for each project may vary due to weather conditions and the availability of materials.
· These projects represent a significant investment in Belle Plaine’s future, ensuring safe and reliable water service for years to come.
· Completion may extend to January–February 2026 through a change order, as the water treatment plant must be operational first.
We appreciate your patience and cooperation as we work to improve our community’s water infrastructure!
THE KDOT PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION PROGRAM - 5311
The Kansas Department of Transportation’s (KDOT) Office of Public Transportation manages the two main programs for transportation service grants in Kansas, the Section 5311 (general public transportation) and Section 5310 (specialized transportation for the elderly or disabled) programs. These programs are funded through the Federal Transit Administration and the State of Kansas.
Mandatory Coordinated Transit District Membership: KSA 75-5057 states that any recipient of Federal or State grants (including Section 5311 grants) to provide rural public transportation services in Kansas shall be required to be a member of a Coordinated Transit District (CTD). An applicant must be an active member of their CTD prior to the submission of their grant application to be eligible to receive Federal and/or State public transportation program funding.
In order to make the best use of existing resources, all applicants for Section 5311 funding are required to carefully explore the possibilities of coordinating their operations with other transportation service providers in the area, who may be able to provide the needed transportation services.
More information on the KDOT Office of Public Transportation’s programs and the Coordinated Transit Districts can be obtained at our website http://www.ksdot.org/burTransPlan/pubtrans/index.asp.
Section 5311 (General Public Transportation) Program Overview
The Section 5311 program provides funding to support rural and small urban (under 50,000 population) transportation projects that serve the general public. Funds are available for both capital and operating assistance. A focus of the Section 5311 program is to coordinate transportation funding sources and systems, in order to alleviate wastefulness created by duplication.
Eligible Applicants: County governments, nonurban (under 50,000 pop.)
city governments, Native American Indian reservations, and private nonprofit corporations registered in Kansas.
Eligible Capital Expenses: Transit vehicles and associated equipment including wheelchair lifts, ramps, restraints, etc.
Eligible Operating Expenses: Drivers, dispatchers, fuel, oil, tires, repairs, vehicle license tags, insurance, marketing, etc.
Capital (Vehicle) Purchase Matching Requirement: KDOT share 80%, local share 20%.
Operating Expense Matching Requirement: KDOT share 50%, local share 50%, The state currently contributes up to 20% to assist with the local match, but these funds are subject to availability.
Water Tower Memorial Display at City Hall
Open for public viewing
Monday - Thursday 7am-5pm and Fridays 7am-11am