Plans to extend Memorial Drive near a new Sam’s Club on undeveloped land north of Abilene Regional Medical Center moved forward Thursday.

The Abilene City Council approved on first reading working with Village Investment Partners, owner of the land, and spending $200,000 to extend the roadway.

Officials said the work will help regarding traffic flow and congestion that could occur without the construction. Total cost of extending the road is approximately $600,000, according to the city of Abilene.