Street Improvement Projects

The City of McPherson street network totals 87 miles. Recognizing streets as a valuable asset, the Street Department strives to complete preventative maintenance to keep streets in optimum condition for the long term. When major projects are constructed, two to four years are required to develop project designs, secure right-of-ways and move utilities. Five factors are considered when evaluating a street. Those factors include traffic volume, what percentage of that volume is composed of trucks, the structural thickness of the roadway, subgrade strength and cost.
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Winko-Matic Signs

Winko-Matic systems provide important signage in school zones. The speed limit signs and lights are an important traffic control feature. Street Department employees are diligent about replacing the signs when there is a malfunction or when damage caused by an accident.

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Patching Projects

City forces routinely complete patching projects like this one along Mulberry Street. Work includes removing sections of the road and replacing them with concrete patches. This process improves the overall quality of the road. This particular project included curb and gutter replacement.

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Crack Sealing

A common preventative maintenance step is crack sealing, which is completed annually by Street Department employees. The cost effective process prolongs the integrity of McPherson streets. Sealing cracks prevents water from flowing underneath the road and reduces the development of potholes and breaks in the concrete.
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Drainage

Limited elevation in the City of McPherson attributes to drainage problems. Street Department employees assist with projects requiring the need to reroute storm water with the ultimate goal of making water to drain properly. A stormwater utility fee paid by McPherson property owners bears the cost of drainage issues.
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Sidewalks

Street Department employees assist with partial or total reconstruction of sidewalks and curbs. The 100 block of east Marlin Street represented an area in poor condition, which was hazardous to pedestrians. The completed project resulted in a much-needed improvement to a high traffic area in the Downtown District.