Designating the Abilene & Smoky Valley Railroad as the official state heritage railroad.
Impact
The designation of the Abilene & Smoky Valley Railroad as the state heritage railroad may lead to increased public interest and investment in preserving this piece of Kansas' history. It could encourage local organizations and the state to support maintenance and promotion efforts. Moreover, this designation could enhance the visibility of the railroad, leading to opportunities for educational programs and events that celebrate its historical context.
Summary
House Bill 2502 aims to designate the Abilene & Smoky Valley Railroad as the official state heritage railroad of Kansas. This bill seeks to honor the historical significance of this railroad, which has played a notable role in the state's transportation history. By officially recognizing the railroad, the bill also intends to promote tourism and heritage appreciation in the region, potentially contributing to local economic benefits.
Contention
While the bill appears focused on honoring a specific historical site, discussions may arise concerning the implications of such designations. Some may question the criteria for choosing a heritage railroad and whether this designation may overshadow other deserving railroads or historical sites within the state. Additionally, consideration may be given to the associated costs of promoting and maintaining a designated heritage railroad, including potential redirecting of state resources.
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.
Requiring railroads operating in Kansas to maintain minimum distances from the near-edge of railroad crossings to the storage of certain rolling stock on sidings.