HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Reno County Commission has agreed to a contract with WSP Engineers to look at areas around Buhler on whether it’s financially feasible to get two areas above the floodplain.

The areas up for study will focus mainly on Buhler Road south of Buhler and possibly include 85th and 82nd avenues from Buhler to K-61.

Brad Shores with WSP in Wichita talked about concentrating on the Buhler Road location.

“We’re anticipating we’re going to find the most cost effective is going to be Buhler, not 82nd or 85th,” Shores said. “We’re just going to zero in on that and give you all of the frequency events, all the construction cost for that one location.” They may also look at 82nd and 85th to the west of Buhler.

The second area they were going to consider was 56th around Cow Creek involving a three-mile stretch of road to K-14 Highway. However, they decided that would not be feasible and could cost millions and millions of dollars.

The goal of the study is to provide enough information for the county to make an informed decision on whether to proceed with a design project to help keep the roads open.

They’re also looking at grants for any projects, but Shores says there is no guarantee.

The study will begin now that the County Commission approved moving forward.