Marina
If navigating Kansas City’s streets feels like playing Mario Kart, you’re not imagining things. Between potholes, metal plates, and crumbling pavement, many roads are well past their intended 15-year lifespan.
But that’s about to change, according to Michael Shaw, Director of the Kansas City Public Works Department.
“I will always tell you, the road to success is always under construction,” Shaw said.
400 Lane Miles to Be Resurfaced in 12 Months
The Public Works Department has set an ambitious goal: resurface 400 lane miles between May 2025 and April 2026. This will be a major upgrade to Kansas City’s road infrastructure, which totals around 6,000 lane miles across the city.
Over the past 11 months, more than 388 lane miles of pavement have already been replaced—nearly hitting last year’s target. For the coming fiscal year, the city council has allocated $30 million for resurfacing efforts.
How the Resurfacing Budget Will Be Split
Kansas City is dividing the funds equally across its three major regions:
| Region | Resurfacing Budget Allocation |
|---|---|
| North | $10 million |
| Central | $10 million |
| South | $10 million |
Each region will benefit from upgraded infrastructure, though the specific roads within those regions are selected based on condition, usage, and coordination with utility projects.
Why Construction Schedules Aren’t Always Clear
Residents often struggle to know where and when construction will happen. Part of the challenge, Shaw says, lies in coordination with utility companies like KC Water and Spire, which frequently perform underground work. These agencies don’t always communicate their plans in advance, making transparency a top priority for Public Works moving forward.
Additionally, under city law, if a utility company cuts into a road that’s been resurfaced within the past five years, they must repave a larger section, not just the part they dug into.
Other Ongoing Road Projects
Beyond the resurfacing plan, GO Bond funds will support larger road reconstruction projects. For example:
- North Oak Trafficway, from 42nd Street to Vivion Road, will undergo a full reconstruction.
- I-70 upgrades within city limits are already underway.
- City crews are actively filling hundreds of potholes during the spring months.
Major Roads Scheduled for Repaving (May 2025 – April 2026)
Here are some of the key roads scheduled for resurfacing:
| Road Name | Section/Location |
|---|---|
| The Paseo | Between E. 27th St. and E. 73rd St. |
| North Chouteau Trafficway | From N. Antioch Rd. to I-35 |
| Broadway Boulevard | Sections between 6th St. and Westport Rd. |
| East 12th Street | From The Paseo to Hardesty Avenue |
| Avenida Cesar E. Chavez | From Southwest Boulevard to Allen Street |
| Wornall Road | From Gregory Blvd. to 73rd Terrace |
Note: The city has not yet released exact construction dates for these roads.
What’s Next for Kansas City Streets
Kansas City continues to modernize its streets through comprehensive resurfacing, reconstruction, and patching efforts. With a multi-million-dollar investment, improved coordination, and a transparent plan, residents can expect smoother rides and fewer “Mario Kart” moments in the months ahead.
To stay updated on construction in your area, residents are encouraged to follow announcements from Kansas City Public Works and check the city’s online tracking tools as they become available.