Later this week, we should learn more about long-term repair plans for the Kansas Turnpike’s northbound bridge over US Highway 50 after a damaging crash Friday morning.
Traffic has been constricted for both northbound Turnpike traffic and for both eastbound and westbound travelers on US-50 since a westbound semi carrying an articulated boom tried to go under the bridge with the boom elevated. The incident then sliced through at least two I-beams on the underside of the bridge and damaged several others. The driver was also taken to Newman Regional Health for suspected minor injuries.
Last week, there were initial conversations about possibly having plans finalized by Monday. There is no current timetable for a plan to be released.
For northbound Turnpike traffic, constrictions have included a blockage of the outside lane, as well as a 12-foot width restriction, temporary 45 mph speed limit and no access to the bridge for oversized or overweight loads for the inside lane until repairs are done. For US-50 traffic, the constrictions have meant westbound traffic is now passing under the bridge using the inside eastbound lane — meaning head-to-head traffic until further notice.
The Turnpike Authority says it has been working with a bridge contractor and design consultant to help with the assessment process and develop a repair plan, but both KTA and the Kansas Department of Transportation say the duration of repairs to come has not been determined. Drivers are asked to expect delays, plan alternate routes and anticipate additional travel time if using either highway in this area.
