National Land Donation May Speed Highway Construction

 In a deal expected to speed the widening of Hwy. 45 through Parkville, the National has donated nine parcels of land to the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) worth more than $2.1 million dollars.
MoDOT has plans to widen Hwy. 45 to four lanes from Hwy. 9 to I-435. Once considered a top priority by the agency, the project has stalled for various reasons over the year, though a roundabout was completed at Rte. K during the past year.

Under terms of the deal, the National agrees to donate the land and waive appraisal. Any excess property not used by MoDOT would be returned to the National at no cost. The property runs approximately from the Parkville Commons to Crooked Road.

The National could have received compensation for the property but all parties agreed it was in the best interests for all concerned to donate the land.

 “I hate to use the term ‘win-win-win situation,’” Jim Allen, Co-Manager of the National, told The Luminary, “but this really is a win-win-win situation. Our thinking was if by donating the property it would help speed the process [of widening the road] it would increase the valuation of  our properties due to the improved access to a modern cleaned up roadway and the improved safety.”

 Hwy. 45 serves to connect I-29 to I-435 West and is a major thoroughfare within Southern Platte County.

The goal of the project is to increase safety, carrying capacity, preserve and enhance the natural beauty of the area, and provide pedestrian trails.   Pedestrian trails will also make 45 very compatible for transit services when ridership levels are met.

 The project is estimated to cost at least $25 million dollars to complete and once finished, expected to stay as such for 100 years.

 “We’re optimistic [MoDOT] will break ground next year on the project,” Allen said.