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In April 2025, Independence voters overwhelmingly approved $55 million dollars in general obligation (GO) bonds to make much-needed infrastructure improvements and repairs. The Independence G.O. Bond (IndeGO Bond) is a record-breaking, multi-year investment in roads, bridges, and sidewalks. These improvement projects will increase connectivity and strengthen the foundation of our city.

Question 2: Roads, Bridges, & Sidewalks - $55 Million

The IndeGO Bond program includes $55 million for street reconstruction and overlay, bridges, and school sidewalks.  
Orange Road sign with text that reads: "BRIDGE CLOSED AHEAD"

Proposed Projects Info: Roads, Bridges, & Sidewalks

Of the $55M allocated for Roads, Bridges, & Sidewalks, the funds will be split accordingly:

  • Roads - $30M
  • Bridges and Culverts - $15M
  • Sidewalks - $10M

$30 million to address major roadways and neighborhood roads with asphalt overlays. Staff will determine roadways most in need of repair while also ensuring equity across the four council districts. Roads will be prioritized based on a variety of factors including traffic, frequency of usage, and severity of damage.

The bond package allocates $15 million towards fixing the following bridges: 

  • Kentucky Ave. Bridge over Rock Creek
  • Lexington Bridge
  • Overton Bridge
  • Valley View Bridge
  • Lee’s Summit Bridge over Union-Pacific Railroad
  • Main St. Bridge over Union-Pacific Railroad
  • Noland Road Bridge over Kansas City Southern Railroad
  • Kentucky Ave. Bridge over Mill Creek
  • Lake City Bridge
  • R.D. Mize Bridge over Trace Trail
  • Wilson Ave. Bridge
  • Southside Blvd. Bridge
  • Heidelberger Bridge

Additionally, the bond package sets aside money for culvert repairs and replacements.

The bridges listed for improvement with the IndeGo Bond were chosen by our Municipal Services for two reasons: 

  • These bridges most impact our citizens, first responders, and city services. It may be near a major artery, or close to a populous area of Independence, or near a fire station. 

  • The bridge is in most need of repair. Some of our bridges are unpassable due to holes that can literally swallow tires. Others cannot support the weight of a vehicle. 

$10 million to go towards fixing or creating sidewalks for seven schools in the Independence and Fort Osage school districts. These schools were chosen by their Superintendents based on necessity, amount of students who walk to school, and location within city limits.

Independence School District

  • Blackburn Elementary
  • Cassell Park Elementary
  • Fairmount Elementary
  • Ott Elementary
  • Mill Creek Elementary

Fort Osage School District

  • Cler-Mont Elementary 
  • Elm Grove Elementary

 

Accountability and Transparency

According to state law, general obligation funds must be spent on the projects listed in the ballot questions. 

  • As projects move forward, reports will be made quarterly to the City Audit and Finance Committee.
  • The City will issue an annual report detailing GO Bond fund spending. You can find updated reports below as they become available. 
  • You can always find updated information on City finances via our Open Finance Portal here.

The 2025 Annual Report on G.O. Bond funds will be available here when it is published.

GENERAL OBLIGATION BOND QUESTION NO. 2

Shall the City of Independence, Missouri, issue its general obligation bonds in the amount of $55,000,000 for transportation purposes, including acquiring land and rights of way, and acquiring, constructing, reconstructing, repairing and improving streets, roads, bridges, culverts and sidewalks throughout the City?