In a significant development aimed at improving traffic flow and safety, 167th Street in south Overland Park, Kansas, is scheduled for a six-month closure starting Sunday, April 6, 2025, at **5 p.m.
This closure is a key component of the broader 69 Express project, which seeks to modernize and expand the U.S. 69 Highway corridor.
Details of the 167th Street Closure
The closure will affect both eastbound and westbound lanes of 167th Street between Metcalf Avenue and Antioch Road. During this period, the following traffic adjustments will be in place:
- U.S. 69 Highway Configuration: Both directions of U.S. 69 Highway over 167th Street will be reduced to one lane.
- Ramp Access: All interchange ramps connecting to 167th Street are scheduled to reopen in early October 2025.
Scope of the 69 Express Project
The 69 Express project encompasses a comprehensive overhaul of U.S. 69 Highway to address congestion and enhance safety. Key elements of the project include:
- Express Lane Addition: Construction of a new express toll lane in each direction adjacent to the existing general-purpose lanes.
- Interchange Improvements: Upgrades to several interchanges, including the reconstruction of the 167th Street interchange to add south-facing ramps for improved access to and from U.S. 69 Highway.
- Bridge Replacements: Replacement of bridges over Interstate 435 and other structures to accommodate the expanded roadway.
Construction Timeline and Traffic Management
The 167th Street closure is part of a phased construction schedule:
- March 7-9, 2025: A prior closure of 167th Street for bridge demolition occurred during this period.
- April 6, 2025 – Early October 2025: The main reconstruction phase, involving the 167th Street closure and U.S. 69 lane reductions.
- Late 2025: Anticipated opening of the express toll lanes and completion of major construction activities.
Traffic Detours and Recommendations
Motorists are advised to seek alternative routes during the closure period. Suggested detours include:
- North-South Traffic: Use 135th Street or 143rd Street as primary north-south corridors.
- East-West Traffic: Utilize 119th Street or 151st Street to navigate across the U.S. 69 Highway.
Project Benefits
Upon completion, the 69 Express project is expected to deliver several benefits:
- Reduced Congestion: The addition of express lanes aims to alleviate traffic bottlenecks, especially during peak hours.
- Enhanced Safety: Upgraded interchanges and roadway designs are intended to decrease the likelihood of accidents.
- Improved Travel Time Reliability: Express lanes will provide more predictable travel times for commuters.
The upcoming six-month closure of 167th Street is a crucial step toward modernizing the U.S. 69 Highway corridor.
While the construction may cause temporary inconveniences, the long-term benefits are expected to significantly enhance traffic flow and safety for all road users.