You may have noticed fencing going up at South 21st Street on the west side of 18th Street Expressway and wondered what’s happening. ABC has received many questions about this, so we wanted to share with the community what’s going on. As many of you know, the 18th Street Bridge replacement project officially got underway this week. The fenced area will serve as a storage site for construction equipment and house offices for the construction crews working on the bridge. We also wanted to take this opportunity to share more details about the project and how you can navigate alternate routes in the community.For more than 65 years, the U.S. 69 (18th Street) Bridge has been a vital connection over the Kansas River, serving as a key transportation link for our community. Originally built in 1959, the bridge has undergone multiple repairs and rehabilitations. However, after an assessment in 2017 and temporary repairs in 2018, it was determined that the bridge had reached the end of its lifespan. Now, the Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) is moving forward with a complete replacement to ensure long-term safety and reliability.
What’s Happening?
Construction is officially underway, and the existing 18th Street Bridge is now closed to traffic. The project is expected to be completed by Fall 2027.
Key Improvements Include:
✅ Full replacement of the U.S. 69 (18th Street) Bridge over the Kansas River and BNSF Rail Yard
✅ Roadway improvements on U.S. 69 within the closure limits
✅ Bridge rehabilitation on bridges over Ruby Ave., Metropolitan Ave., Osage Ave., and the KCT/CPKC Railway
✅ Upgraded safety features and modern design standards
Detour Information
With the closure of the 18th Street Bridge, KDOT has established designated detour routes:
🚧 Northbound Detour: Exit at Steel Rd. or Ruby Ave.
🚧 Southbound Detour:** Exit at **Kansas Ave./K-32
🚧 Alternate Neighborhood Routes:
- South 42nd St.
- South 26th St. to Goddard Bridge to Strong Ave.
- South 12th St.
- South 7th St.
Additionally, KDOT is diverting traffic to I-70, I-635, and I-35 for regional travel.
Why This Matters
The 18th Street Bridge has long been a lifeline for residents and businesses in our area. While the closure will cause temporary inconvenience, these improvements will create a safer, more modern bridge and roadway system for decades to come.
Stay informed and plan ahead by checking for updates from KDOT and local agencies. If you have questions or need alternate route suggestions, don’t hesitate to reach out!
Amanda DeVriese-Sebilla amanda@argentinekc.org
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