The Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) is providing technical assistance on the Gypsum Hills Scenic Byway on a project to make improvements at Memorial Peace Park near Medicine Lodge.

The project will install byway kiosks, trailheads, trail improvements, playground equipment, benches, lighting, roadway and accessible sidewalk improvements.

Work will begin the week of April 13, conditions permitting, on the improvements to the handicapped parking area with the other phases to follow.

Prado Construction, of Valley Center, is the contractor on this nearly $1.1 million project. The project is funded by a 2022 National Scenic Byway Program Grant and the city of Medicine Lodge, with contributions from KDOT.

Work is expected to be completed by the end of the 2026 construction season.

Kansas Byways are a collection of routes that highlight the beauty, history and heritage of Kansas, help stimulate the economy through tourism and promote a positive image of the state. The program is jointly managed by the KDOT, the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism, the Kansas Historical Society and the Federal Highway Administration.

For additional information on the project, contact Deb Kolb with Barber County United at deb@barbercountyunited.org or call her at (620) 886-1759.

For current road conditions, visit kandrive.gov or call 511. For updates on construction projects in South Central Kansas, visit ksdot.gov/southcentralnews.