11 March 2024
WELLINGTON, Kan. (KSNW) — The U.S. Highway 166 bridge over the Kansas Turnpike/Interstate 35 is about to get a significant facelift, with “lift” being the keyword.
The Kansas Turnpike Authority is raising bridges over the Turnpike to allow taller commercial vehicles to go under them. The goal is to raise all the overhead bridges to at least 15 feet, nine inches. Since bridge raising began in 2016, 69 bridges have been raised.
Construction on the U.S. 166 bridge is expected to begin March 28 and last through mid-November.
The project includes pavement surfacing, guardrail, bridge pier protection, berm improvements and bridge rehabilitation.
The Kansas Turnpike will remain open, but there will be intermittent lane closures.
For people who use U.S. 166, there will be signs for a designated detour. The usual 24-minute trip between South Haven and Arkansas City will more than double.
Drivers can check for road construction, crashes, and weather delays by visiting KanDrive.gov.
The Kansas Turnpike Authority also offers KTA Alerts. Sign up by clicking here. Or sign up for KTA monthly construction emails by clicking here.