Marina
Drivers traveling on US-50 near Emporia, Kansas, should brace for travel disruptions beginning Monday, May 5, 2025, as critical bridge repair work begins. The Kansas Turnpike Authority has scheduled a lane closure in the affected area to address substantial structural damage caused by a vehicle incident in April.
Why the Lane Reduction Is Happening
The upcoming lane closure stems from a bridge strike incident that occurred on April 18. Around 8:30 a.m., a semitrailer hauling a cherry picker collided with a bridge that carries northbound traffic along the I-35/Kansas Turnpike near US-50.
It is believed that the cherry picker became unexpectedly extended during transit, leading to the crash.
The collision caused major damage, reportedly ripping two to three support beams underneath the bridge deck. The extent of the structural compromise required immediate attention and led to scheduled lane restrictions for repairs.
Location and Timeframe
The lane reduction will affect a stretch of US-50 between Road G (Americus) and Overlander Road. Starting on Monday, May 5, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. CT, traffic will be reduced to one lane as repair crews work on stabilizing and restoring the damaged bridge structure.
Traffic will be flagged through the work zone, which may cause slowdowns and temporary backups throughout the repair period.
What Motorists Should Expect
Motorists using this route should prepare for delays and consider using alternate routes when possible. During the scheduled repair window, only one lane will remain open, and traffic flow will be manually controlled by flaggers.
Drivers are advised to allow extra travel time, follow posted signs and signals, and stay alert when passing through the work zone to ensure both driver and worker safety.
Repair Process and Safety Measures
The bridge repairs involve temporary shoring to stabilize the structure before full restorations are conducted. This shoring ensures that the bridge remains structurally safe for limited traffic use while permanent fixes are planned and implemented in the weeks to come.
While no full closure is expected on US-50 during this particular phase, extended repairs may continue throughout the summer, with occasional lane restrictions depending on project progress.
Key Facts at a Glance
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Date of Incident | April 18, 2025 |
| Repair Date | Monday, May 5, 2025 |
| Time of Work | 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. CT |
| Affected Roadway | US-50 near Emporia |
| Specific Area | Between Road G (Americus) and Overlander Road |
| Cause of Damage | Cherry picker on semitrailer struck bridge |
| Type of Damage | 2–3 beams under bridge deck torn |
| Traffic Control | Flaggers directing one-lane traffic |
| Alternate Routes | Advised for through traffic |
| Expected Delays | Moderate to significant |
Motorist Tips to Avoid Delays
To help minimize delays and keep traffic moving safely, drivers should:
- Plan alternate routes if traveling near Emporia during the repair window.
- Leave earlier than usual to accommodate slowdowns.
- Watch for signage and obey flaggers in the work zone.
- Avoid distractions and drive cautiously through the reduced lane.
This lane closure is a reminder of how infrastructure maintenance is essential for safety, especially after unforeseen events such as vehicle-related impacts.
The lane reduction on US-50 near Emporia is a necessary inconvenience to ensure public safety following a significant bridge impact. With only one lane open during active work hours on May 5, drivers should expect delays, follow all safety protocols, and plan alternate routes if possible.
Patience and cooperation will be key as crews work to restore the bridge and ensure the integrity of this vital Kansas roadway.