Resident warns commissioners 287th Street bridge closure is delaying EMS, urges detour signage and compliance

During public comment, a resident who gave two property addresses described a failed single‑lane bridge on 287th Street and pressed county leaders for faster action, better detour signage and dust control on reroutes.

“I put 2 of them out myself. Didn’t call the fire department because they wouldn't have made it,” the resident said, describing recent storm damage and the lack of ready emergency access. The commenter said emergency medical services require about 20 minutes to reach his property because the bridge is closed and neighboring routes are not clearly signed, and he urged the county to comply with Kansas law on detour signage and dust control so people can navigate alternate routes safely.

County staff responded that environmental reviews and coordination with other departments and external agencies (such as KDHE) affect the timeline for certain bridge repairs. Staff said they are working with the contractor and other departments on necessary studies; commissioners acknowledged the tension between required environmental or design steps and residents’ urgency for quicker repairs and detour marking.