Image courtesy of KDOT

By NOLAN POINTER

TOPEKA, Kan. – A $239 million project that is rebuilding 2.5 miles of the Interstate 70 corridor to replace aging infrastructure and increase capacity to six lanes is on track to finish in late 2027.

The general contractor for the Topeka-based I-70 Polk-Quincy Viaduct project is Bettis Koss Construction, a joint venture between Topeka-based Bettis Asphalt & Construction Inc. and Koss Construction Co. Kansas Dept. The Kansas Dept. of Transportation awarded the contract for this large highway and viaduct reconstruction project to these two local, family-owned companies.

The I-70 Polk-Quincy Viaduct was Originally constructed in the late 1950s, the I-70 Polk-Quincy Viaduct bridge’s condition deteriorated, traffic volumes have increased, highway design criteria have changed, and the surrounding area has undergone development. The project’s goals are to replace the aging viaduct, ease traffic congestion and improve safety.

Construction in 2026 is focusing on connecting the highway to the new viaduct. I-70 will remain open for a portion of the year in a reduced configuration.