Politics
Topeka Infrastructure Referendum Would Fund Road Projects and Workforce Programs
The measure would allocate city resources to capital projects that local officials project will support construction employment and maintain public facilities in Shawnee County.
How we reported this
The November ballot in Topeka includes a referendum on a $180 million infrastructure bond package that would finance road resurfacing, bridge repairs and expansion of the city's public works maintenance yards. The measure would affect property owners and businesses within city limits by adding a dedicated levy projected at 0.35 percent of assessed value over 15 years.
City documents show the proposal responds to a 2025 engineering assessment that identified 47 miles of streets rated in poor condition and 12 bridges requiring immediate structural work. Local budget papers note that current general fund allocations cover only routine patching, leaving larger replacements unfunded since the last capital plan expired in 2023.
Jobs tied to construction contracts
Under the plan, 65 percent of bond proceeds would go to certified contractors required to hire at least 40 percent of their crews from Shawnee County residents. The city clerk's office estimates this would generate 1,200 temporary construction positions during the first three years of projects, based on historical data from the 2019 street bond program.
Services and facilities upgrades
Remaining funds would target water treatment plant upgrades and new equipment for the Topeka Transit fleet. Residents on routes 1 and 4 would see scheduled bus replacements, while households near the Kansas River would receive improved drainage infrastructure listed in the 2026 public works capital improvement list.
The Shawnee County budget summary for fiscal year 2026 lists deferred maintenance costs at $92 million, with the referendum covering roughly half that backlog if approved. Analysts at the Kansas Policy Institute have calculated that each $10 million in completed road work reduces annual vehicle repair expenses for local drivers by an estimated $1.2 million.
Ballots will be mailed to registered voters on October 15, with in-person early voting available at the Shawnee County Election Office starting October 20. Final certification of results is scheduled for December 1.