The Regional Development Association of East Central Kansas is awaiting word on a rating that could mean significant potential for future development.
According to interim RDA President Jim Witt, the city recently underwent a Bioeconomy Development Opportunity zone rating survey which evaluates an area’s potential for biomass projects in the future. According to Witt, there are only 40 “biorated” regions in the United States.
Witt says the survey runs on a scale of C to AAA with very few regions receiving a rating above triple B. Witt explains the rating does not immediately guarantee any projects for the community, but rather acts as a marketable stamp of approval.
Biomass projects are those that use biomass fuels, alternative fuels that avoid carbon dioxide emissions. Witt anticipates learning the community’s rating within the next four to six weeks.
Witt’s update on the rating survey came as part of the RDA’s monthly board meeting this past Friday during which time members also received an update on a recently approved improvement project on Road F near Emporia’s Industrial Park IV. The $2.1 million project will be funded in part by the state of Kansas which has pledged $1.3 million to the venture.
The city’s portion of the cost comes to just over $700,000, however, Witt says there is potential for that price tag to come down significantly.
Witt says Road F is an important part of local infrastructure and the pending improvements will mean better road conditions and more access to Park IV for future development.
The RDA Board of Directors will reconvene for its monthly meeting in March.
