Kokomo takes in land near new U.S. 31 bypass

KOKOMO, Ind. (AP) - A central Indiana city is looking to add about 6 square miles along a new U.S. 31 bypass that's under construction.

The Kokomo city council voted unanimously Monday night to approve annexing the area southeast of the city from Indiana 26 to U.S. 35.

Attorney Tonny Storey tells the Kokomo Tribune that enough property owners in the area have signed petitions against the annexation to challenge it in court. Storey says the property owners hope to negotiate a settlement of their concerns with city officials.

Councilman Tom Miklik says it is essential for the city to control development along the new bypass on the city's east side.

The $155 million bypass is expected to open in fall 2013, avoiding the highway's current stoplight-congested stretch through Kokomo.