HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County Commission agreed to seek funds to help with the cost of repairing the 43rd Street bridge near old K-61.

The Kansas Department of Transportation announced a new cost sharing program with cities and counties across the state.

Reno County Public Works Director Dave McComb talked about the objective of this program from KDOT.

“The Cost Share Program provides financial assistance to local entities for construction projects that improve safety,” McComb said. The commission wants to leverage state funds to increase total transportation investment and help both rural and urban areas of the state improve the transportation system.

There are two pots, one with as much as $50 million available, however, McComb warns that it will be very competitive.

The minimum a city or county can request is $1 million. That city or county has to give a 25% match. However, county officials decided they would up that match to 50% in hopes of having a better chance of getting some money.

There is a catch: the application has to be in by Oct. 11. Commissioners also want the City of Hutchinson, the Buhler School District, the Fire Department and EMS to produce letters of support to help their chances.

There is possibly another chance in March of next year to apply.