By ALLAN LUDIKER

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – The Improve I-70 KC project will lead to a safer and more sustainable corridor along Interstate 70 between The Paseo Boulevard and U.S. 40/31st Street in Kansas City, Mo.

This $237 million project will help to improve reliability, safety, infrastructure and community connectivity, all while bringing the corridor up to current design standards. The project began in Spring 2025 and will continue through Spring 2028.

Lasting improvements
The improvements from the project will have a lasting positive impact for all who travel the corridor. Improvements include the replacement of 15 bridges and rehabilitation of an additional seven, reconstruction of I-70 near Jackson Avenue and Benton Boulevard to align with current design standards and the construction of a fourth through-lane eastbound from Prospect Avenue to the bridge over the Manchester Trafficway.

Pedestrians and bicyclists will also see upgrades and improved connectivity throughout the project, with the upgrade of sidewalks and shared-use paths and the addition of new pedestrian bridges.

Planned impacts
Throughout the next three years, this project will be one of – if not the most – impactful work zones throughout the Kansas City metro area. Construction impacts and work zones are designed with quality and efficiency in mind.

In June and July 2026, MoDOT has committed to keeping three lanes open in both directions on I-70 minimizing impacts during the FIFA World Cup.

A 10-month closure of I-70 is scheduled in the project area for 2027. Although the closure will have significant impacts on regional traffic, it will allow mainline I-70 work to be completed substantially faster than under typical staged construction. The closure will also maximize safety for motorists, pedestrians, and workers and minimize overall inconvenience to motorists and the local community.

Unique outreach
The regional impacts of the Improve I-70 KC project contribute to continued strategic communication and outreach planning with agencies, planning partners, organizations and local communities. In addition, the project provides ongoing opportunities for engagement with the community and future generations through career education and STEM outreach.

Allan Ludiker, PE, is the project director for Improve I-70 KC.