The city purchased 10.83 acres of land for a new substation to serve residents.

The land was purchased from New Life Community Church for $280,009 at 17955 South Clare Road and the agreement signed on Oct. 16.

The city will be putting down a $20,000 deposit of earnest money.

The project will be executed in two phases.

Gonz Garcia, utilities director, said the first phase began with the land purchase and the second phase will be the preliminary design.

The project funds are from the Electric Fund CIP.

In Olsson, Inc.’s report they stated the outward growth was creating more demand for electricity for residents and businesses.

The 2006 Electric Master Plan and 2018 I-35 and 175th Street Interchange Subarea Plan both predicted the future demand for a new substation to serve the east side of the city.

The power will serve 5,759 acres.

The city approved a $130,970 contract with Olsson at their February 21 city council meeting.

Olsson, Inc. said the site was the best location to serve the east side of town because it was already adjacent to Evergy’s existing 161kV transmission line and future line.

They said possible connections to existing 12.47kV distribution facilities could serve future growth, it doesn’t require subdividing and permitting and existing landscaping can be used to minimize the substation’s visual impact.

Steve Shute, council vice president, said he was happy New Life Community Church accepted the city’s offer.

“It will help the east side,” he said.