JOHNSON COUNTY – Construction to put in a J-turn at the intersection of Route 50 and Route 131 is expected to begin June 19, according to the Missouri Department of Transportation. The project is expected to be completed by August 15. All work is weather dependent.
The J-turn has been proven to cut down on serious crashes that occur when drivers must cross over busy highways to get to another road.
In the J-turn design, drivers merge with traffic traveling in the opposite direction of their desired destination. Gradually, drivers will merge into the left lane to prepare to make a left-hand turn in the direction they originally desired to travel. These series of gradual merges, although longer in distance, can take the same amount of time or less, while significantly reducing right angle, side crashes. J-turns have also been shown to reduce fatal and serious injury crashes. Missouri currently has 19 J-turns in action with plans for more in the future.
For more information about how J-turns work and where they are located follow http://www.modot.org/general/J-Turns.htm or https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ipuaRxjQifk. For additional information about the project, visit http://www.modot.org/kansascity/major_projects/Route_50_Route_131.htm.
MoDOT urges all motorists to always wear safety belts, follow posted speed limits and be alert for slowed traffic, narrowed lanes or a reduced number of lanes during construction and maintenance work. And remember, every work zone is a NO PHONE ZONE.
For more information about MoDOT news, projects or events, please visit our website at www.modot.mo.gov/kansascity. For instant updates, follow MoDOT_KC on Twitter, or share posts and comments on our Facebook at www.facebook.com/MoDOT.KansasCity. MoDOT Kansas City maintains more than 7,000 miles of state roadway in nine counties. Sign up online for workzone updates or call 888-ASK-MODOT (275-6636).