Rep. Davids requests federal funds for two Olathe community projects

Two community projects in Olathe are among 3rd District Rep. Sharice Davids 2026 House Appropriations Committee bills, meaning they may receive federal funds if approved.

The first is a request for $884,466 for sewer rehabilitation within the city. This would be used to replace old, worn out pipes and manhole covers.

Sewer projects are among the most expensive year-to-year in Olathe, although they typically focus on major capital improvements to the city’s waste water plants. Those projects will help with issues related to specific pipes and waterlines, but older ones still need to be replaced.

“We applaud Representative Davids’ continued appreciation of the importance of maintaining our sewer system,” Olathe mayor John Bacon said. “Helping return some of our federal tax dollars allows us to best meet this fundamental responsibility, and it makes a difference to all of Olathe.”

The other Olathe community project is related to Kansas State-Olathe’s recent push to increase its supply chain-related offerings. The request is for $1,039,000 in lab equipment “so students can train for high-tech, good-paying supply chain research and advanced manufacturing jobs as domestic manufacturing grows in Kansas City.”

This is part of the campus’s 2023 strategic plan, which puts more of a focus on manufacturing, the supply chain and food as medicine. Dean Ben Wolfe has explained in the past that these issues are of particular interest due to their regional importance. Being land-grant university, which traditionally specializes in agriculture and manufacturing, and with upcoming large projects like the Panasonic plant in De Soto, the need for workers in those areas is increasing.

These projects are two of the 14 Davids submitted for house appropriations. The projects total $11.8 million, and reach areas across the 3rd District.

“My job is to be a voice for Kansas’ Third District in Washington and make sure our community’s priorities are front and center,” Davids said. “These projects, developed in partnership with local leaders, will strengthen our communities by improving road safety, ensuring cleaner water, enhancing public safety, and driving economic growth. I’ve always fought for smart, fiscally responsible investments — and these initiatives reflect that commitment while making a meaningful difference for Kansans.”

The House and Senate must still pass these bills before they are considered by President Donald Trump.