Designating portions of K-96 highway as the PFC Henry Lee Fisher memorial highway and the 96th Infantry Division memorial highway, a portion of United States highway 69 as the Ken W Brock memorial highway, a portion of United States highway 81 as the Merle Miller memorial highway and a portion of United States highway 281 as the first responders memorial highway, redesignating a current portion of the American Legion memorial highway for United States highway 281 and redesignating a current portion of the Frank Carlson memorial highway for United States highway 81, designating bridge No. 160-96-293.72 in Sumner county as the SrA Derek Scott Martin memorial bridge and designating the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe #3415 as the official state steam locomotive and the Abilene & Smoky Valley Railroad as the official state heritage railroad.
Impact
The impact of HB 2481 is multifaceted, as it focuses on celebrating the contributions of individuals who have served in various capacities, particularly in the military and public service. By designating highways and landmarks as memorials, the bill not only honors these individuals but also serves to educate the public about their contributions. It may also stimulate interest in heritage tourism as communities take pride in local history and memorial designations. Furthermore, the authority granted to the Secretary of Transportation to place suitable signs along highways will enhance recognition and visibility of the designated memorials.
Summary
House Bill 2481 pertains to transportation and focuses on the designation of certain highways and landmarks in the state of Kansas as memorials to individuals and groups. The bill designates portions of major highways, including K-96, U.S. Highway 69, U.S. Highway 81, and U.S. Highway 281, with titles commemorating soldiers, first responders, and other notable figures. Notable designations include the PFC Henry Lee Fisher memorial highway, the Ken W. Brock memorial highway, and the first responders' memorial highway, among others. Additionally, it establishes the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe #3415 as the official state steam locomotive and the Abilene & Smoky Valley Railroad as the official state heritage railroad.
Contention
While the passage of HB 2481 met with strong support, particular points of contention may arise from the selection of individuals or themes represented in the memorial designations. Discussions may center around whose contributions are honored and if all significant groups and individuals are fairly represented. Additionally, the logistical implications of maintaining and recognizing these memorials, including the costs associated with sign placements and ongoing maintenance, could be examined as potential concerns.
Designating a future interchange on K-10 highway as the Kris Norton memorial interchange, a portion of K-5 highway as the Rep Marvin S Robinson memorial highway, a portion of United States highway 160 as the CPL Monte Wayne Forrest memorial highway, a portion of United States highway 77 as the POW MIA memorial highway and bridge No. 82-14-6.88 (026) in Clay county as the POW MIA memorial bridge, and redesignating a current portion of the Harry Darby memorial highway for interstate highway 635.
Designating a portion of United States highway 75 as the Brig Gen George H Wark memorial highway, a portion of United States highway 56 as the Bill Tucker memorial highway and redesignating a current portion of the purple heart/combat wounded veterans highway for United States highway 75.
Designating a portion of United States highway 77 as the POW MIA memorial highway and bridge No. 82-14-6.88 (026) in Clay county as the POW MIA memorial bridge.
Designating a portion of I-35 as the deputy Sam Smith memorial highway and redesignating a current portion of the 35th infantry division memorial highway for I-35.
Designating certain bridges on U.S. highway 69 and 18th street expressway in Johnson county as the Representative Robert M Tomlinson memorial bridge, a bridge on interstate 135 in Sedgwick county as the Don Snyder memorial bridge, a portion of interstate 35 as the deputy Sam Smith memorial highway, a portion of U.S. highway 36 as the undersheriff Brandon Gaede memorial highway, a portion of K-49 highway as the Pvt Michael E Gerber memorial highway and redesignating a current portion of the 35th infantry division memorial highway for interstate 35.