What’s happening? The Kansas Department of Transportation closed portions of I-70 in Gove and Trego counties at 4 a.m. on Wednesday.
Crews are removing the bridge carrying 150 Avenue over I-70 in Trego County. The closure will be in place until the work is completed and will not exceed a period of 24 hours.
Why is the bridge being removed? KDOT has safety concerns about structural deficiencies caused by strikes to the bridge from above-height loads. The bridge has been hit several times since it was closed to traffic in March, and plans for its replacement are currently in development.
Where will I-70 be closed? Westbound lanes will be closed from Exits 115 and 128 between Collyer and WaKeeney. Eastbound lanes will be closed from Exits 95 and 120 between Grainfield and Voda Road.
How will traffic be detoured? The signed detour will be on K-23, U.S. 24 and U.S. 283. Note: construction on U.S. 283 in Graham County will be suspended on Sept. 4. These routes were selected to minimize the length of the closed section on I-70. Motorists may follow the signed detour or use other routes.
What should travelers expect? Increased traffic volume should be expected in the communities along the detour route. Drivers should plan for delays and consider using other alternative routes if possible. KDOT crews will assist with directing traffic, and law enforcement has indicated plans to increase patrols along the detour route. KDOT has also enacted a 12-foot width restriction and 100-foot length restriction on the entirety of the detour route for the duration of the closure.