HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The City of Hutchinson has provided the following updates to keep the community informed on what all is happening.
WOODY SEAT ROADWAY PROJECT UPDATE
Construction on the Woody Seat Phase 2 project continues to make strong progress. According to Construction Inspector Charles Hensley, work began March 12, 2025, with demolition of the old pavement, curbs, gutters, and the two bridges crossing Avenue A and B.
A fun historical note: Those bridges were originally built in 1958, and age was a major factor in the decision to fully replace them.
Since demolition wrapped up, crews have:
- Installed 408 linear feet of new water line from Sherman to Madison, allowing the City to abandon an aging water line along Avenue A.
- Replaced 250 linear feet of 8-inch and 60 linear feet of 16-inch ductile iron pipe on Avenue B after discovering a water line at a higher elevation than expected.
- Completed all storm sewer installation on the roadway.
- Begun sidewalk construction at Madison, moving east toward Adams.
- Installed most curb and gutter using a slip-form paver from Adams to Madison.
- Paved the inner ring of the new roundabout and nearly finished the stamped, colored medians.
The project continues to move forward diligently, and the Engineering Department appreciates the community’s patience as we work to improve this vital corridor.
A short project update video is included below for residents who would like to hear directly from our construction inspector.
Woody Seat Update Video – Dec 2nd 2025
CITY STORM CONDITIONS & RESPONSE LEVELS
As winter approaches, our Public Works snow response team is preparing for a range of weather scenarios. The City monitors five different storm conditions, each requiring a different level of response to keep roads safe.
Important note:
Different areas of Hutchinson may receive different treatment depending on local weather conditions, road conditions, and safety priorities.
Here’s what each condition means:
♦ Condition I – Light Ice (6–8 times/year)
Light mist causes icing on bridges/overpasses.
Response: 2–3 salt spreaders treat affected areas.
Condition II – Ice Rain (1–3 times/year)
Rain transitions to ice (up to ½ inch).
Response: Full salt application (300 lbs/lane mile), 8 spreaders, 1 snow boss. Additional staff may assist with traffic control or downed trees/power lines.
♦ Condition III – Light Snow (6–8 times/year)
1–3 inches of snow.
Response: Plowing begins at 1–2 inches, followed by light salting. Major streets prioritized; 4 V-plows clear residential streets.
♦ Condition IV – Heavy Snow (0–3 times/year)
4–8 inches with drifting.
Response: Same as Condition III, plus graders/loaders to widen streets and clear intersections. Snow may be hauled away if needed.
♦ Condition V – Blizzard (0–2 times/year)
Travel becomes hazardous.
Response: Snow removal may pause except for emergency vehicles. Full operations begin once conditions improve, sometimes with contractor support.
We look forward to sharing more updates and winter safety tips as the season continues.
NORTH PLUM STREET DETOUR: STORM LINE REPAIR
Beginning Monday, December 8, City Public Works crews have begun repairing a failed stormwater line crossing N. Plum Street between East 3rd and East 4th Avenues.
Because of the severity of the infrastructure failure, crews must open-cut the street to remove and replace the damaged pipe. This requires a full closure of N. Plum in both directions for approximately two weeks, weather permitting.
A detour route will be in place for northbound and southbound traffic. While the detour is designed primarily for large truck traffic, residents may choose alternative routes that work best for them.
Thank you for your patience as we complete this critical repair.
UPCOMING HOLIDAY EVENTS
- Light Up Hutch – Nighttime Christmas Parade
December 6
One of Hutchinson’s most magical traditions returns this weekend! Bundle up and bring the whole family downtown as the parade lights up Main Street. For the full schedule of activities follow the Light Up Hutch – Downtown Christmas Parade Facebook page.
- Prairie Nights Holiday Lights
December 5
Kick off the season with a festive night out at the Hutchinson Zoo! Enjoy dazzling holiday lights, cozy fire pits, s’mores, a pop-up bar, and live music—all designed for adults 21+. Purchase tickets and learn more at hutchinsonzoo.org.
- Nights Before Christmas
December 12 & 13, 19 & 20, and 26 & 27
Enter a world of twinkling lights and holiday cheer at the Hutchinson Zoo’s 10th annual Holiday Light Show. Families can enjoy cookies and cocoa with Santa, animals after dark, rides on the Prairie Thunder Holiday Train, and holiday lights galore. Purchase tickets and learn more at hutchinsonzoo.org.
For a full list of upcoming events visit VisitHutch.com.
