Cost-Benefit Analysis
Big Blue River 2nd Connection
Cost-Benefit Analysis
Big Blue River 2nd Connection
Cost-Benefit Analysis
Big Blue River 2nd Connection
Background
The idea of a second roadway crossing (2nd Connection) of the Big Blue River between Manhattan and Blue Township in Pottawatomie County has long been discussed. The purpose of this Cost-Benefit Analysis project is to study and analyze a series of proposed 2nd Connection routes. The study will provide facts and data that will inform and guide future conversations and plans, and help move the region towards a viable solution. Note, this study will not select the final 2nd connection route, rather the analysis will provide pros and cons of each route.
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This study is funded through a partnership between Pottawatomie County, Riley County, and the City of Manhattan. As a regional, multi-jurisdictional project, the Flint Hills MPO is administering the study. Benesch has been selected as the engineering firm leading the study. ​​
Routes of Study
The map below shows the general alignment of all 2nd Connection routes being studied (A-E).
Route alignments were chosen based on public input, previous studies, and future growth potential.
Analysis Criteria
The following criteria will be analyzed and documented for each proposed 2nd Connection Route.
This holistic analysis will show the pros and cons, issues and opportunities, and cost estimates of each route option.​
Traffic & Travel
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Traffic Impact & Volumes
Using Travel Demand Modeling, we will forecast how many vehicles would use each proposed route. The model allows for forecast using today's development and population, as well as planned growth in the year 2050. In addition, the model allows us to see how each 2nd Connection route affects traffic on US-24.
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Travel Times
Using Travel Demand Modeling, travel times (minutes Home > Work [8a] and Work > Home [5p]) will be developed for each proposed route, for both today and future growth projects out to 2050. Travel time information will also be developed for US-24, showing how each route affects this key highway.
Feasibility
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Private Property & Right-of-Way
Routes will be studied to see the impacts and issues with private property and right-of-way
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Topographic
Routes will evaluated to see potential topographic issues (Hills to the valley/river) and solutions
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Hydrological
For routes that cross or are adjacent to rivers, hydrological requirements will be studied, including analysis of floodways and flood zones, and the potential impact road, bridge, and berm designs would have on backwater flooding, etc.
Cost Estimates
The data from the Feasibility criteria will factor into design needs, creating high-level cost estimates for each route.
Cost-Benefit Matrix
A final product of the analysis will be a cost-benefit matrix. This matrix will provide an easy to understand comparison of all criteria for all routes studied. The matrix below is for example only (fictional data).
Matrix filled with example data only
Project Timeline
Estimated schedule
Travel Time & Traffic Volume Comparison
This interactive tool allows you to compare travel time from Blue Township or St. George to various locations in Manhattan, using 2nd Connection Routes (ie. A vs B vs US-24, etc.). The tool shows predicted travel times for today and under future conditions in 2050.
Coming Soon
This tool allows you to compare expected traffic volumes (number of vehicles) on 2nd Connection Routes (A - E), and how those routes impact traffic volumes on US-24. ​Travel volumes are provided for today and under future conditions in 2050.
US-24 Corridor Study
A parallel study being conducted by KDOT, the US-24 Corridor Management Plan Update, will update the existing 2009 plan of this critical National Highway System roadway. In addition to the existing segment from Wamego to Manhattan, the plan will extend north and west to the town of Riley. Project data from the 2nd Connection Cost-Benefit Analysis will be used in the KDOT US-24 study, and vice versa.