Kansas Breaks Ground on $27.5M I-70 and K-18 Interchange Upgrade
Key Takeaways
- KDOT has launched a $27.5 million project to improve the I-70 and K-18 interchange in Junction City.
- The project includes a two-mile auxiliary lane, new flyover ramp, and intersection reconfiguration at Boiler Road.
- Upgrades are expected to reduce congestion and accommodate a 35–40% traffic increase over the next 20 years.
The Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) has broken ground on a $27.5 million improvement project at the Interstate-70 and Kansas Highway 18 interchange, aiming to reduce congestion and enhance traffic in Junction City, Kan.
The project will include the construction of two-mile auxiliary lane from eastbound I-70, a newly constructed flyover ramp stretching over I-70 and the existing K-18 bridge, and modifications to the ramp connecting K-18 to westbound I-70, according to a KDOT news release. Crews will also reconfigure the Boiler Road intersection north of the interstate.
Boosting Capacity for Future Traffic Growth
The new interchange design will support increased roadway capacity, allowing drivers to maintain a consistent speed while entering or exiting K-18, KDOT reported. The improvements are designed to accommodate a projected traffic increase of 35 to 40 percent over the next 20 years. The project also accommodates freight activities.
According to JC Post, the upgraded interchange will alleviate congestion often experienced during Kansas City home games, when heavy traffic is stalled to the through lane on I-70.
Construction Timeline and Motorist Impacts
The first phase of construction focuses on dirt work, with minimal impacts to I-70, K-18 and the current interchange, according to KDOT. A closure at the Boiler Road intersection with K-18 is currently in effect to allow crews to complete its realignment.
The initial phase is expected to be completed by March 2026, with the full project slated for completion in fall 2027, pending weather conditions.