The Interstate 35 bridge replacement, which has been taking place over the last year, is, for all intents and purposes, now complete.
The only thing remaining on the checklist, according to Kansas Department of Transportation Engineer Steve Baalman, is some minor cleanup work, which should be completed by Monday of next week. The project, which began early last year, replaced two bridges for both north and southbound drivers and the repair was significantly needed, according to Baalman in an interview with KVOE News Friday.
Baalman says the community should get roughly 60-75 years of use out of the new structures.
The project required notable traffic adjustments throughout its duration, including the complete closure of Lincoln Street and head-to-head traffic on I-35. Baalman was pleased to report that both adjustments have ended with I-35 returning to two-lane traffic last week and Lincoln Street reopening to through traffic on Thursday night.
City of Emporia Engineer Jim Ubert says not only did the project require some adjustments to local traffic, it also required the city to “Juggle” its project schedule, noting there were multiple projects taking place in the same area over the last year, including the construction of a new hike and bike path and the city’s 24th and Prairie water line replacement.
The hike and bike path, which has been under construction for the past several months, has been completed and now connects the Becker Addition north of the Interstate to Jones Park. Both Ubert and Baalman offered their gratitude to residents and motorists for their patience and flexibility throughout the project.
