STERLING, Kan. (AP) _ A group of farmers is asking transportation officials to change the proposed route of a widened highway in central Kansas.

The state Department of Transportation wants to build a divided four-lane Kansas 96 between Nickerson and Sterling to replace the current two-lane route. Planners say it would accommodate larger freight trucks and area growth.

But about 30 people have signed a letter to KDOT concerned that the proposed 15-mile corridor will cut through prime irrigated farmland and discourage young farmers who want to grow there.

The proposed routes for the highway were presented at a public hearing in Sterling Thursday.

KDOT plans to hold another public hearing this fall to review the plan. So far, the state hasn't set aside money for design or construction.

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