After a struggle that's lasted more than two decades, the Kansas Department of Transportation has finally conceded to acknowledge the existence of Hillsboro to travelers driving along Interstate 135. Last month, KDOT notified city officials that it is planning to add "Hillsboro" to the highway signs drivers see as they near the exits to U.S. Highway 56 at McPherson.
It would seem like a simple and logical idea for the state to recognize the largest community in Marion County, but technicalities in KDOT protocols apparently are harder to crack than most of the highways it builds. Lord knows community leaders have tried to hammer home that point time and time again, but always in vain.
Until now. Word has it that State Rep. Don Dahl deserves some credit for KDOT's recent decision. It never hurts to have a little hometown political clout in Topeka, and we thank him for paving the way for this change of heart.
Road signs on the interstate don't guarantee economic growth, but they move us in the right direction, don't you think? -DR
