Chamber Establishes Fund for John Neal Memorial Highway Signage

Apr 21, 2010

The Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce announced today that it has established a special fund at the Hutchinson Community Foundation to hold contributions from the community for signage to mark the newly designated “John Neal Memorial Highway,” a stretch of the future K-61 running from north Hutchinson to Medora.

Legislation was passed this month to name the section of highway after the late John Neal, a Hutchinson Businessman and community leader. As former Chairman of the Chamber’s Transportation Coalition, John Neal worked tirelessly campaigning for highway projects that would enhance accessibility to Hutchinson. His efforts over the years led to the successful completion of several projects, including the four-lane K-96 between Hutchinson and Wichita and, subsequently, to the major improvement now underway on K-61 between Hutchinson and McPherson. “Our community and region will continue to see the long term benefits of John Neal’s work to improve highway access,” noted Dave Kerr, Chamber President. “The Chamber is pleased that he is being honored by this designation.”

Signage to mark the Highway will be erected for traffic moving in both directions and will cost $5040. The money must be raised by private donations and signing will not be made until fund raising is complete. K-61 is expected to be completed in late 2011. All donations are tax deductible.

Checks may be made payable to:

Hutchinson Community Foundation

Memo “John Neal Memorial Highway Fund”

P.O. Box 298

Hutchinson, Kansas 67504-0298

E-mail judyb@hutchchamber.com or call 620-662-3391 for more information

RELEASED BY:

Jade Piros

Director of Communications & Marketing
jadep@hutchchamber.com