KDOT reopens eastbound I-70 Lewis and Clark Viaduct in Kansas City
The Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) has reopened the eastbound I-70 Lewis and Clark Viaduct bridge over the Kansas River in Kansas City, Kan., a week ahead of schedule.
Today, contractors are removing traffic control components required for the closures and detours. Eastbound I-70 and the following ramps are now open: Minnesota Avenue to eastbound I-70 and Washington Boulevard to eastbound I-70 entrance ramps, and westbound I-70 to Central Avenue/6th Street exit ramp.
Weight restrictions are in place for the eastbound I-70 Lewis and Clark Viaduct bridge and posted as follows:
- Single vehicle 25 Tons
- Truck-trailer semi-trailer 43 Tons
- Truck trailer combination 43 Tons
The southbound Fairfax Trafficway to eastbound I-70 entrance ramp remains closed to traffic as KDOT maintenance crews complete repairs to the approach pavement. The ramp is expected to reopen on Dec. 27, conditions permitting.
“We are pleased to reopen the Lewis and Clark Viaduct bridge, restoring an important connection for the area,” Transportation Secretary Calvin Reed said “This achievement reflects the hard work of our contractors and KDOT staff. We appreciate the community’s patience during the closure and we’re glad to see traffic flowing again.”
While painting work at multiple locations on the bridge is underway, the pedestrian bridge on the underdeck of the Lewis and Clark Viaduct remains closed.
The eastbound I-70 bridge was closed in September for gusset plate repairs and required detours and closure of area ramps. Gusset plate repair work was completed by Clarkson Construction Company, of Kansas City, Mo. Joint repair work on the bridge was completed by PCiRoads, of St. Michael, Minn.