1 April 2024
WICHITA, Kan. (KSNW) — A road closure this weekend will affect thousands of Wichita-area drivers. The Kansas Department of Transportation is closing north- and southbound lanes of Interstate 135 from Friday evening until Monday morning.
I-135, I-235, K-96, K-254, Hillside impact
The closing of the southbound lanes will start at the North Junction construction site and extend to the Kansas Highway 96 eastbound interchange.
KDOT will block the southbound ramps from Interstate 235, K-96 and Kansas Highway 254.
The northbound closure will be at the K-96 eastbound interchange. Drivers on Hillside will be affected by detoured traffic.
The road closure begins at 7 p.m. on Friday, April 5, and ends at 6 a.m. on Monday, April 8.
The red lines on the map indicate the closed portions and ramps of I-135. The green line shows the northbound detour. (Courtesy KDOT)
Detours
Southbound traffic will be detoured to Interstate 235. Drivers can stay on I-235 to get to south Wichita or choose other I-235 exits to get to other Wichita destinations.
Northbound drivers will exit to eastbound K-96 and can return to northbound I-135 by exiting at Hillside, turning left onto Hillside, left onto westbound K-96, and then taking northbound I-135 ramp.
A KDOT spokesperson says that drivers on Hillside will be diverted so that the detoured traffic can make a faster turnaround at Hillside.
Westbound drivers on K-96 will not be able to take the southbound I-135 ramp.
Why I-135 is closing
KDOT says workers are closing I-135 so workers can safely remove a bridge and some pavement, reconstruct an inlet, restripe some lanes, and install an overhead sign.
There will be reduced speeds in and near the construction area. KDOT asks drivers to remain vigilant and watch out for construction workers.
For updates on the North Junction projects, visit 135Gold.com.