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Regional Boards => Central States => Topic started by: route56 on September 10, 2018, 10:36:00 AM

Title: KDOT announces K-10 South Lawrence Trafficway study
Post by: route56 on September 10, 2018, 10:36:00 AM
Released Friday

Quote from: Laurie Arellano, KDOT PIO
KDOT announces K-10 South Lawrence Trafficway study

Topeka - The Kansas Department of Transportation announces the initiation of a Supplemental Environmental Impact Study (SEIS) of the South Lawrence Trafficway corridor.

KDOT has decided to evaluate the South Lawrence Trafficway corridor, which extends from I-70 at N. 1800 Road to east of K-10 at 23rd Street and includes E. 600 Road and portions of U.S. 40.

The SEIS will fully evaluate and document the impacts and benefits that alternatives will have on the surrounding area throughout the study process. The SEIS will also allow KDOT to gather additional input from the public and local stakeholders. The most recent studies of the west leg of the South Lawrence Trafficway were completed in 2016.

The eastern portion of the trafficway was opened in 2016, and since that date, the area has seen additional growth and increased traffic. KDOT has determined a study to assess options for improving the level of service is necessary to provide drivers and residents
decision tools.

The SEIS process is expected to take approximately three years to complete. Throughout the process, KDOT will engage the community through stakeholder and public meetings and workshops to provide updates and gather input.

The most recent studies of the South Lawrence Trafficway area are available at https://www.ksdot.org/bureaus/TopekaMetro/projectstudytest.asp

###

South Lawrence Trafficway Supplemental EIS
Frequently Asked Questions


Study Process

Q: What is an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS)?
A: An Environmental Impact Statement or EIS is a document required by the Federal Highway Administration to evaluate the impact proposed improvements will have on the natural and manmade environment. It is designed to help agencies, elected officials, and the public make sound decisions for the project and its surrounding area. An EIS is prescribed by the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA) and is one type of environmental document necessary to secure federal clearance and funding for transportation improvements.

Q: What is a Supplement to an EIS (SEIS)?
A: A Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (SEIS) reviews the findings of an existing EIS. A SEIS considers new or additional environmental impacts based on the introduction of new improvement options and/or major changes in the natural environment or communities. The South Lawrence Trafficway SEIS will evaluate if — and how — upgrading the corridor to a four-lane freeway, modifying access, and exploring new funding mechanisms alter the impacts and recommendations previously identified through the 1990
EIS and 2008 East Leg EIS.

Q: Why is there another study?
A: KDOT conducted the K-10 West Leg Concept Study from 2014-2016, which proposed adding two new lanes between I-70 and US-59 and modifying existing access through reconfiguration of existing interchanges, removal of at-grade intersections, conversion of existing at-grade intersections to new interchanges, and adding new interchanges to improve safety and traffic flow. During this study, an environmental reevaluation of the past NEPA decision for the West Leg was initiated to assess changes since the time of the initial
1990 EIS. In the spring of 2016, the public raised concerns regarding K-10 access at Farmer's Turnpike that led to the Federal Highway Administration recommend additional evaluation of the proposed alternatives and the study area through a Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (SEIS). The SEIS will review the concept alternatives and evaluate the entire corridor for impacts, and identify ways to minimize or avoid impacts to sensitive project environmental features within the project footprint.

Q: What will the SEIS evaluate?
A: The current SEIS, as a supplement to the original 1990 EIS, will evaluate a "˜No Action' alternative as well as a combination of potential funding options for the entire SLT study area. Roadway configuration options will be evaluated, including upgrading the West Section as a four-lane freeway with controlled access and the interchanges at West 6th Street/U.S. 40, Bob Billings Parkway, Clinton Parkway, an interchange between Wakarusa Drive and E 1200 Rd/Kasold Drive, and at U.S. 59/Iowa Street. Also, interchange alternatives at I-70/East 600 Road/Lecompton Road and K-10/I-70/North 1800 Road will be considered.

Schedule
Q: Why does the SEIS take 3 years to complete?
A: While there has been a lot of work done over the past several years to develop improvement alternatives, the SEIS process involves reviewing the previous work completed, looking for issues that could impact the improvement alternatives, and evaluating the potential funding options as part of the overall solution. There is coordination with many federal and state agencies that needs to occur, along with opportunities for public engagement throughout the project. These steps all take time, and KDOT and FHWA mutually agree that a three-year schedule is realistic to arrive at an approved final Record of Decision (ROD) for the project.

Study boundaries
Q: What are the physical limits of the study?
A: The overall project study limits begin just north of Interstate 70 at North 1800 Road(Farmer's Turnpike) and extend to just east of the existing K-10/23rd Street interchange. The overall length is 19.0 miles and is broken down as follows:
- The West Leg SLT begins just north of Interstate 70 at North 1800 Road(Farmer's Turnpike) to US-59/Iowa Street (approximately 8.7 miles);
- The East Leg SLT begins at US-59/Iowa Street and continues to the existing K-10/23rd Street system interchange (5.6 miles); and
- The project study area also includes East 600 Road/Lecompton Road at Interstate 70 (approximately 0.6 mile), and U.S. 40 from K-10 to E 600 Road (approximately 4.1 miles).


Funding
Q: Is there funding for construction?
A: There is no funding for construction at this time. A range of funding options will be evaluated as part of the SEIS.

How do I get information?
Q: How will stakeholders be kept informed?
A: Stakeholders can stay informed by attending scheduled public meetings, or requesting a specific meeting for your community group. A project website is under development and will be live later in the fall. You can also sign up for project updates or ask question by emailing the project team at info@SLT-KS.org.

Q: How can I get involved?
A: Please stay informed by attending meetings, and asking questions. There will be surveys and focus groups to provide input at different times throughout the study process. When the SEIS Draft is released, you may review and provide comments about the alternatives and the study process to the project team at info@SLT-KS.org.
Title: Re: KDOT announces K-10 South Lawrence Trafficway study
Post by: The Ghostbuster on September 10, 2018, 05:11:59 PM
So this proposal would upgrade the two-lane portion of K-10 into a four-lane freeway. Now that the missing link of the SLT between US 59 and the pre-existing K-10 four-lane freeway is completed, I think it is a good idea to make the entire K-10 corridor a uniformed four-laned freeway.
Title: Re: KDOT announces K-10 South Lawrence Trafficway study
Post by: mvak36 on September 10, 2018, 06:11:30 PM
Quote from: The Ghostbuster on September 10, 2018, 05:11:59 PM
So this proposal would upgrade the two-lane portion of K-10 into a four-lane freeway. Now that the missing link of the SLT between US 59 and the pre-existing K-10 four-lane freeway is completed, I think it is a good idea to make the entire K-10 corridor a uniformed four-laned freeway.

:confused: :eyebrow:
I'm not sure what you mean by uniform but it's a freeway everywhere except the last remaining two-lane portion.
Title: Re: KDOT announces K-10 South Lawrence Trafficway study
Post by: SD Mapman on September 12, 2018, 11:56:59 PM
Quote from: mvak36 on September 10, 2018, 06:11:30 PM
Quote from: The Ghostbuster on September 10, 2018, 05:11:59 PM
So this proposal would upgrade the two-lane portion of K-10 into a four-lane freeway. Now that the missing link of the SLT between US 59 and the pre-existing K-10 four-lane freeway is completed, I think it is a good idea to make the entire K-10 corridor a uniformed four-laned freeway.

:confused: :eyebrow:
I'm not sure what you mean by uniform but it's a freeway everywhere except the last remaining two-lane portion.
They have bridge space to upgrade it on the two lane section (here (https://www.google.com/maps/@38.9591495,-95.3341936,3a,75y,333.73h,91.16t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sNCijd4mm-9EJNBiOLLL0kg!2e0!6s%2F%2Fgeo0.ggpht.com%2Fcbk%3Fpanoid%3DNCijd4mm-9EJNBiOLLL0kg%26output%3Dthumbnail%26cb_client%3Dsearch.TACTILE.gps%26thumb%3D2%26w%3D96%26h%3D64%26yaw%3D190.0699%26pitch%3D0%26thumbfov%3D100))
Title: Re: KDOT announces K-10 South Lawrence Trafficway study
Post by: mvak36 on September 13, 2018, 12:22:46 AM
Quote from: SD Mapman on September 12, 2018, 11:56:59 PM
Quote from: mvak36 on September 10, 2018, 06:11:30 PM
Quote from: The Ghostbuster on September 10, 2018, 05:11:59 PM
So this proposal would upgrade the two-lane portion of K-10 into a four-lane freeway. Now that the missing link of the SLT between US 59 and the pre-existing K-10 four-lane freeway is completed, I think it is a good idea to make the entire K-10 corridor a uniformed four-laned freeway.

:confused: :eyebrow:
I'm not sure what you mean by uniform but it's a freeway everywhere except the last remaining two-lane portion.
They have bridge space to upgrade it on the two lane section (here (https://www.google.com/maps/@38.9591495,-95.3341936,3a,75y,333.73h,91.16t/data=!3m5!1e1!3m3!1sNCijd4mm-9EJNBiOLLL0kg!2e0!6s%2F%2Fgeo0.ggpht.com%2Fcbk%3Fpanoid%3DNCijd4mm-9EJNBiOLLL0kg%26output%3Dthumbnail%26cb_client%3Dsearch.TACTILE.gps%26thumb%3D2%26w%3D96%26h%3D64%26yaw%3D190.0699%26pitch%3D0%26thumbfov%3D100))
Ah I see what you mean. Also I misunderstood the ghostbusters post. That's my fault.


iPhone
Title: Re: KDOT announces K-10 South Lawrence Trafficway study
Post by: route56 on October 25, 2018, 12:52:08 PM
KDOT met with the Douglas County Commission on Wednesday night regarding the upcoming SLT NEPA review. The prospect of toll funding of the project once again peaked out from its gopher hole:

http://www2.ljworld.com/news/county-government/2018/oct/24/kdot-official-says-upgrade-to-west-leg-of-k-10-might-have-to-be-funded-using-tolls/
[Advisory: LJW now has a paywall]

Also, the first public meeting regarding the study has now been set: November 14, 5 PM, Southwest Middle School in Lawrence.
Title: Re: KDOT announces K-10 South Lawrence Trafficway study
Post by: The Ghostbuster on October 26, 2018, 05:28:24 PM
If tolling were implemented, would it just apply to the current two-lane segment (Interstate 70 to US 59)? Or might the rest of the 38-mile roadway be tolled as well?
Title: Re: KDOT announces K-10 South Lawrence Trafficway study
Post by: NE2 on October 26, 2018, 06:05:25 PM
I'd ride on the South Lawrence Urban Trafficway.
Title: Re: KDOT announces K-10 South Lawrence Trafficway study
Post by: SCtoKC on October 26, 2018, 08:15:03 PM
Quote from: The Ghostbuster on October 26, 2018, 05:28:24 PM
If tolling were implemented, would it just apply to the current two-lane segment (Interstate 70 to US 59)? Or might the rest of the 38-mile roadway be tolled as well?

I can't see them tolling the entire thing.  K-10 was built to be a toll-free alternative between KC and Lawrence.
Title: Re: KDOT announces K-10 South Lawrence Trafficway study
Post by: route56 on October 26, 2018, 11:41:47 PM
Quote from: The Ghostbuster on October 26, 2018, 05:28:24 PM
If tolling were implemented, would it just apply to the current two-lane segment (Interstate 70 to US 59)? Or might the rest of the 38-mile roadway be tolled as well?

Obviously, KDOT didn't say, but I suppose either option is possible. It's also possible that tolling may not raise sufficient revenue to pay for the tolling infrastructure, let alone raise money to build and maintain a the widening of the west leg of the Trafficway.

EDIT: A follow-up article in the Journal-World indicated that tolls are being considered only for the SLT, including the recently completed east leg from US 59 east to 23rd Street (where K-10 rejoins its pre-SLT alignment)

Quote from: NE2 on October 26, 2018, 06:05:25 PM
I'd ride on the South Lawrence Urban Trafficway.

May the bird of paradise fly up your nose.
Title: Re: KDOT announces K-10 South Lawrence Trafficway study
Post by: J N Winkler on October 28, 2018, 07:08:42 PM
The backdrop to the current discussion of tolling the SLT is the $2 billion taken from KDOT to backfill revenue shortfalls resulting from the now largely repealed Brownback tax cuts.  T-WORKS is about to expire, so the Legislature has a transportation task force looking at the possible shape of a successor program and options for funding.  The Economic Lifelines transportation lobbying group has already submitted testimony calling for a plan to pay back the $2 billion and apply it to highway improvements.  My sense is that repayment is essentially a political choice and much will depend on who wins the gubernatorial election next month.  It does make me kind of nervous that one of the third-party candidates (the Libertarian, I think) has said the gas tax is too high and floated the idea of cutting it.
Title: Re: KDOT announces K-10 South Lawrence Trafficway study
Post by: route56 on October 30, 2018, 07:20:51 PM
One other thing not previously mentioned: the proposal calls for a toll rate of 15 cents per mile, compared to 6 cents per mile on the Turnpike.

The Douglas County Commission and the Lawrence Journal-World have both come out in opposition to placing tolls on K-10.

And another thing... IIRC, if a segment of the US highway system is tolled, a toll-free alternative must be provided. Since US 40 is carried on the west leg of the SLT, if the SLT were to be tolled, the most obvious toll-free alternative would be the segment of West 6th Street that KDOT relinquished and the city of Lawrence agreed to accept. I don't know if AASHTO would allow a US highway designation on a route under local jurisdiction; therefore, KDOT would have to re-take 6th. A second possibility would be to extend the US 24/US 40 concurrency from Lawrence to Topeka.
Title: Re: KDOT announces K-10 South Lawrence Trafficway study
Post by: route56 on November 15, 2018, 01:47:47 PM
http://www2.ljworld.com/news/state-government/2018/nov/14/public-shares-concerns-about-tolls-safety-at-meeting-on-k-10-west-leg-improvements/

Opening paragraph of today's story:

Quote
Notes left on a comment board Wednesday at a public informational meeting on proposed upgrades for Kansas Highway 10 left no doubt about what was on attendees' minds: "No tolls."

Also on the post-it board  (though not really mentioned in the article):

* Access to the SLT to/from the North. KDOT was looking at a system to system interchange that would have cut off direct access to K-10 from the "Farmers Turnpike" (officially known as N 1800 Road). People from the Perry/Lecompton area wishing to access K-10 would have had to take
a sub-standard US 40 or a new Turnpike interchange to access K-10.

* Noise abatement. When the west leg was initially built, there were no residences. Although the people who moved in to the new homes that were subsequently built know of the highway's presence, noise was apparently not a big deal until the east leg opened up. Also, at least one person suggested that engine/exhaust break be restricted on the downgrade between the Clinton Parkway interchange and the traffic light at 27th.

* One post-it read: "Will we have to meet about a 6-lane road in 10 years - we waited 20 years for a bypass in the first place.

* Another thought the $300 million estimated price tag was "ridiculous."

* A third post it suggested a road on the east side of town to take traffic off of the SLT.

Meanwhile, after the paper had (presumably) been put to bed, there was another wreck on the SLT.

http://www2.ljworld.com/news/public-safety/2018/nov/15/1-seriously-injured-in-3-car-crash-at-stoplight-on-k-10/
Title: Re: KDOT announces K-10 South Lawrence Trafficway study
Post by: route56 on November 15, 2018, 06:52:35 PM
It appears that the right-in, right-out experiment on K-10 at Kasold has failed. KDOT is shutting the intersection down on December 3rd

http://www2.ljworld.com/news/state-government/2018/nov/15/kdot-to-permanently-close-k-10-intersection-at-kasold/

Also, at the meeting last night, I did ask why the NEPA process is considered a Supplemental EIS (as opposed to just EIS): The person I talked to indicated because the project covers the same area as the 1990 EIS (and, to a lesser extent, the 2003/2008 EIS), the current NEPA process is considered an update, hence the "supplemental" title.
Title: Re: KDOT announces K-10 South Lawrence Trafficway study
Post by: route56 on December 10, 2018, 02:48:50 PM
This article appeared in the Lawrence Journal-World regarding the surge in traffic, and the resulting surge in accidents, on the west leg of the Trafficway.

http://www2.ljworld.com/news/city-government/2018/dec/09/since-south-lawrence-trafficways-completion-accidents-have-spiked-on-western-leg/
Title: Re: KDOT announces K-10 South Lawrence Trafficway study
Post by: route56 on April 22, 2019, 01:40:32 PM
BUMP!

KDOT recently presented to the city a slightly more detailed look at the options to be included in the forthcoming SEIS for the west leg of the South Lawrence Trafficway

https://www2.ljworld.com/news/city-government/2019/apr/15/kdot-to-present-options-for-south-lawrence-trafficway-improvements-including-adding-tolls/

The options included:

* No Action, which is always included for baseline comparison. However, KDOT is committed to rebuiding the interchange between the SLT and West 6th into a DDI, and the City and County anticipate eventually extending Wakarusa Drive to the south.
* Transportation System Management/Transportation Demand Management: Improvements confined to transportation management strategies similar to KC Scout or WICHway.
* Multimodal: Concentrating on public transit option to be in hopes of reducing/retarding demand capacity.
* Added Capacity Expressway
* Added Capacity Freeway
* Added Capacity Tollway

The next public open house will be Wednesday, May 1, at Southwest Middle School in Lawrence.
Title: Re: KDOT announces K-10 South Lawrence Trafficway study
Post by: Ned Weasel on April 23, 2019, 02:48:38 AM
Quote from: route56 on April 22, 2019, 01:40:32 PM
BUMP!

KDOT recently presented to the city a slightly more detailed look at the options to be included in the forthcoming SEIS for the west leg of the South Lawrence Trafficway

https://www2.ljworld.com/news/city-government/2019/apr/15/kdot-to-present-options-for-south-lawrence-trafficway-improvements-including-adding-tolls/

The options included:

* No Action, which is always included for baseline comparison. However, KDOT is committed to rebuiding the interchange between the SLT and West 6th into a DDI, and the City and County anticipate eventually extending Wakarusa Drive to the south.
* Transportation System Management/Transportation Demand Management: Improvements confined to transportation management strategies similar to KC Scout or WICHway.
* Multimodal: Concentrating on public transit option to be in hopes of reducing/retarding demand capacity.
* Added Capacity Expressway
* Added Capacity Freeway
* Added Capacity Tollway

The next public open house will be Wednesday, May 1, at Southwest Middle School in Lawrence.

The multimodal option is intriguing.  I like that idea as long as it fully addresses all of the safety issues.

If they upgrade the road to a full freeway, I still don't think an additional Turnpike interchange is necessary.  The existing Exit 197 interchange could be modified for free-flowing traffic, albeit with slow curves, and this would greatly simplify the project.  K-96 doesn't even have a fully free-flowing interchange with the Turnpike, and that is a partial beltway that is already a freeway and has been for a long time now.
Title: Re: KDOT announces K-10 South Lawrence Trafficway study
Post by: The Ghostbuster on April 23, 2019, 04:56:45 PM
I would prefer options 5 or 6 for K-10. 6 lanes on the existing 2-lane segment may be overkill. If tolls are charged, they should be 100% electronic.
Title: Re: KDOT announces K-10 South Lawrence Trafficway study
Post by: Ned Weasel on April 23, 2019, 09:36:52 PM
Quote from: The Ghostbuster on April 23, 2019, 04:56:45 PM
If tolls are charged, they should be 100% electronic.

I have no doubt they would be all-electronic.  As far as I know, no toll road authority in the U.S. or Canada these days is building new toll booths where drivers have to stop to pay the toll.  Exit 212 on the Kansas Turnpike might have been a last gasp for toll booths, and that one's fully automated, not staffed.  I assume the KTA didn't want to experiment with creating a K-TAG requirement at that interchange, but even the new Exit 52 (I assume that's the number for the direct ramps to US 54/400/Kellogg Avenue Freeway) is going to be all-electronic.
Title: Re: KDOT announces K-10 South Lawrence Trafficway study
Post by: mvak36 on April 24, 2019, 08:41:51 AM
They might need to put tolls on the new section of road unless they want a big increase in traffic from all the people that are going to use K-10 to avoid tolls on the remaining 20 to 25 miles of the turnpike.
Title: Re: KDOT announces K-10 South Lawrence Trafficway study
Post by: route56 on May 01, 2019, 09:20:52 PM
I did make it over to the public meeting

* The biggest complaint about conditions on the existing SLT is the intersection with 27th Street. KDOT has placed radar trailers for a queue backup warning system and will add an "Advanced Signal Warning System" next year. A suggestion was made to close 27th Street to the east to reduce queue disruption at the light.

* In my comments, I pointed out that, because KDOT relinquished 6th between K-10 and Iowa, the west leg of the trafficway carries the US 40 designation. AASHTO policy is that a US highway routed along a tolled facility requires a toll free alternative, which would effectively mean that KDOT would have to take back 6th Street.

* Not all of the officials there were familiar with the AASHTO route numbering committee, but there was one that did. He mentioned that the route numbering committee is there to make sense to the numbering - and then he points out US 400 :)
Title: Re: KDOT announces K-10 South Lawrence Trafficway study
Post by: route56 on May 14, 2019, 03:30:44 PM
https://www2.ljworld.com/news/city-government/2019/may/12/kdot-narrowing-down-options-for-south-lawrence-trafficway-expansion-will-study-4-and-6-lane-freeway-designs/

Not unexpectedly, KDOT is focusing on a freeway design for the west leg of the SLT.
Title: Re: KDOT announces K-10 South Lawrence Trafficway study
Post by: The Ghostbuster on May 15, 2019, 04:11:36 PM
Good. Now they have to decide whether to make it a four-lane road, a six-lane road, and/or make it a toll road.
Title: Re: KDOT announces K-10 South Lawrence Trafficway study
Post by: mvak36 on May 16, 2019, 09:57:09 AM
Quote from: The Ghostbuster on May 15, 2019, 04:11:36 PM
Good. Now they have to decide whether to make it a four-lane road, a six-lane road, and/or make it a toll road.

I think they probably will have to at least make the people getting off of I-70 pay a toll so that everyone just doesn't get on K-10 to avoid paying tolls on that last stretch of 70. Although K-10 is such a cluster from near the K-7 interchange to its eastern terminus that I'd probably still take 70 to not have to deal with the traffic.
Title: Re: KDOT announces K-10 South Lawrence Trafficway study
Post by: Scott5114 on May 16, 2019, 03:54:43 PM
If KDOT gave a damn about shunpiking, they wouldn't have built I-35 east of Emporia.
Title: Re: KDOT announces K-10 South Lawrence Trafficway study
Post by: Ned Weasel on May 16, 2019, 09:05:14 PM
Quote from: mvak36 on May 16, 2019, 09:57:09 AM
Quote from: The Ghostbuster on May 15, 2019, 04:11:36 PM
Good. Now they have to decide whether to make it a four-lane road, a six-lane road, and/or make it a toll road.

I think they probably will have to at least make the people getting off of I-70 pay a toll so that everyone just doesn't get on K-10 to avoid paying tolls on that last stretch of 70. Although K-10 is such a cluster from near the K-7 interchange to its eastern terminus that I'd probably still take 70 to not have to deal with the traffic.

But if you take I-70 through Kansas City, you have to deal with the cluster that is the Downtown Loop.  K-10 is the western leg of Kansas City's de facto east-west bypass.  But just because it's a bypass doesn't mean it isn't susceptible to congestion.

Quote from: Scott5114 on May 16, 2019, 03:54:43 PM
If KDOT gave a damn about shunpiking, they wouldn't have built I-35 east of Emporia.

I've always found it at least mildly surprising that it got built in the first place, considering you can count on one hand the number of miles it saves versus routing I-35 along the whole length of the Turnpike.  I can only imagine the suburban growth that would have likely occurred in Leavenworth and Douglas Counties but instead went to Johnson County because of the toll-free I-35 segment.
Title: Re: KDOT announces K-10 South Lawrence Trafficway study
Post by: mvak36 on May 16, 2019, 09:32:33 PM
Quote from: stridentweasel on May 16, 2019, 09:05:14 PM
Quote from: mvak36 on May 16, 2019, 09:57:09 AM
Quote from: The Ghostbuster on May 15, 2019, 04:11:36 PM
Good. Now they have to decide whether to make it a four-lane road, a six-lane road, and/or make it a toll road.

I think they probably will have to at least make the people getting off of I-70 pay a toll so that everyone just doesn't get on K-10 to avoid paying tolls on that last stretch of 70. Although K-10 is such a cluster from near the K-7 interchange to its eastern terminus that I'd probably still take 70 to not have to deal with the traffic.

But if you take I-70 through Kansas City, you have to deal with the cluster that is the Downtown Loop.  K-10 is the western leg of Kansas City's de facto east-west bypass.  But just because it's a bypass doesn't mean it isn't susceptible to congestion.

Quote from: Scott5114 on May 16, 2019, 03:54:43 PM
If KDOT gave a damn about shunpiking, they wouldn't have built I-35 east of Emporia.

I actually live in Johnson county east of the 435/35/K-10 interchange. I've found it quicker to take 70 and 435 rather than try to deal with the congestion on K10 once I get closer to the city. Maybe it's just how the traffic was at the times I was driving through.



iPhone
Title: Re: KDOT announces K-10 South Lawrence Trafficway study
Post by: route56 on September 11, 2019, 08:27:53 PM
KDOT has installed a queue detection system for the K-10/27th Street intersection. Here's the press release:

Quote from: KDOT
KDOT making interim improvements on SLT's K-10 at 27th Street

On Sept. 11, the Kansas Department of Transportation implemented one of many interim improvements to address safety on the South Lawrence Trafficway (SLT) corridor while the Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement study continues to progress for the future freeway improvements.

KDOT installed a queue warning system in advance of the K-10/27th Street intersection, informing travelers of the presence of slow or stopped traffic using dynamic message signs. Travelers can anticipate advanced warning messages on three eastbound signs and four westbound signs.

The signs will notify travelers to slow down to help reduce queuing-related collisions. KDOT urges all motorists to be alert and obey the warning signs when approaching and driving through this intersection.

To stay aware of all road construction projects across Kansas go to www.kandrive.org (http://www.kandrive.org) or call 5-1-1.

For more information, please contact: Garry Olson, Traffic Engineer with the Bureau of [size=78%]Transportation Safety and Technology, 785-368-7297.
Title: Re: KDOT announces K-10 South Lawrence Trafficway study
Post by: The Ghostbuster on September 12, 2019, 02:44:05 PM
Variable Message Signs are always good in providing travel times and other information about the roadway in question. Here in Wisconsin, they are used extensively in the Milwaukee area, and there are some in the Madison area as well.
Title: Re: KDOT announces K-10 South Lawrence Trafficway study
Post by: route56 on November 04, 2019, 01:12:06 PM
KDOT is proposing more improvements to the K-10/27th Street intersection:

https://www2.ljworld.com/news/city-government/2019/nov/03/lawrence-city-commission-to-review-proposed-safety-improvements-for-troublesome-slt-intersection/

Title: Re: KDOT announces K-10 South Lawrence Trafficway study
Post by: The Ghostbuster on November 05, 2019, 03:09:23 PM
Wikipedia says this intersection is planned to be converted into a diverging diamond interchange. Is that the long-term plan, with the short-term plan being the safety improvements listed?
Title: Re: KDOT announces K-10 South Lawrence Trafficway study
Post by: kphoger on November 05, 2019, 03:49:12 PM
Quote from: The Ghostbuster on November 05, 2019, 03:09:23 PM
Wikipedia says this intersection is planned to be converted into a diverging diamond interchange. Is that the long-term plan, with the short-term plan being the safety improvements listed?

The source for that claim was a June 2016 online article from that same newspaper, which in turn had gotten its information from an October 2015 KDOT proposal (https://www.ksdot.org/Assets/wwwksdotorg/bureaus/TopekaMetro/pdf2015/K-10%20West%20Leg%20SLT%20Study%20Public%20Open%20House%20Handout-October%202015-1.pdf) (.pdf warning).  As of May 2019, the below are called "Interim Improvements":

- Queue Backup Warning System, Operational May 2019
- Advanced Signal Warning System, Construction Spring 2020
- Interim Intersection Improvements Study, Report Complete Fall 2019

Hmmm......
Title: Re: KDOT announces K-10 South Lawrence Trafficway study
Post by: route56 on November 07, 2019, 03:24:06 PM
Quote from: The Ghostbuster on November 05, 2019, 03:09:23 PM
Wikipedia says this intersection is planned to be converted into a diverging diamond interchange. Is that the long-term plan, with the short-term plan being the safety improvements listed?

The long term plan is for the western leg to be rebuilt to freeway standards. Whether there's a DDI for Wakarusa, or something else, is technically still up in the air.

(The study in the thread title refers to the environmental study, officially a supplement to the 1990 EIS for the west leg and 2003/2008 EIS for the east leg, for widening the west leg)
Title: Re: KDOT announces K-10 South Lawrence Trafficway study
Post by: route56 on May 08, 2020, 06:51:47 PM
[Thread Exhumation]

KDOT and HNTB are ready for the next public comment session regarding the next phase of the SEIS process. Due to the Coronavirus, that public open house is going online.

Quote from: HNTB
Keeping health and safety a priority for participants, the Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) and the Federal Highway Admin (FHWA) are pleased to announce they will be hosting a virtual public meeting for the public to learn more vabout the South Lawrence Trafficway Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (SEIS).

The virtual open house will provide project updates and share the reasonable alternatives for the SLT improvements. Participants will have the ability to submit questions and comments through an online form that will go directly to the project team and they will respond as needed.

The purpose of the SEIS is to evaluate options for improving the SLT, including review of reasonable alternatives that will enhance safety and improve congestion while supporting its use as a thriving corridor for the City of Lawrence and the surrounding region. The SEIS is scheduled to be completed in 2021.

To attend the virtual meeting, visit www.slt-ks.org (http://www.slt-ks.org) between May 14 and May 28 and follow Public Meeting links on the front page. After the conclusion of the meeting, a summary of questions and comments and meeting materials will be posted on the website.

If you need special assistance, would like to request a hard copy version or would like to discuss with a project team member please contact Kelsey Heavin at 816-527-2468 or kheavin@hntb.com.
Title: Re: KDOT announces K-10 South Lawrence Trafficway study
Post by: route56 on June 30, 2020, 05:09:16 PM
UPDATE! 6/30/20

Quote from: KDOT Public Information Office

Improvements on K-10 in Lawrence to begin July 6

An intersection improvement project at the 27th Street/Wakarusa Avenue intersection on K-10 in Lawrence is expected to begin, Monday, July 6, weather permitting. Also, a mill and overlay project on K-10 is expected to begin mid-August or early September. Work will occur in two phases and is expected to be complete in mid-October.

Phase one will include the following safety improvements at the 27th Street/Wakarusa Avenue intersection:
-   Adding an eastbound K-10 right turn lane to enter the sports complex.
-   Extending the length of the existing westbound K-10 right turn lane to enter Wakarusa Drive and 27th Streets,
-   Adding lane assignments and pavement markings to Wakarusa Drive and restricting left turn movements from 27th Street to Wakarusa Drive,
-   Relocation of the crosswalk on Wakarusa further west with shorter crosswalk length, additionally, a pedestrian activated Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacon will be installed at this relocated crosswalk location,
-   Additional pedestrian use signing will be added to K-10, Wakarusa Drive and 27th Street.

These improvements will reduce wait times on Wakarusa Drive and eliminate the conflict point between Wakarusa Drive and 27th Street. Also, by adding and extending right turn lanes, operations on K-10 will be improved.

Work will occur during daylight hours and there will be some weekend and night-time closures at the intersection, as necessary. Traffic will encounter various lane closures, and a lane width restriction of 12 feet in the work area. Drivers should pay attention to signing placed in advance of each phase of work.

In mid-August or early September, the mill and overlay project in Phase 2 will begin, weather permitting. Work will occur from the Farmer's Turnpike to the U.S. 59/K-10 junction, 7 p.m. to 5 a.m., Monday evenings to Saturday mornings.

Traffic will be controlled using a lane width reduction to 12 feet in the work area, speed limit signs, traffic cones and barricades. A pilot car operation will guide traffic during the night-time hours. Drivers should expect delays of about 15 minutes.

Hamm Inc, of Perry is the contractor on the $4.3 million project.

RPK Note: The project was part of the April lettings (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=15260.msg2488417#msg2488417). Hamm's bid was actually closer to $4.4 million  :bigass:
Title: Re: KDOT announces K-10 South Lawrence Trafficway study
Post by: Plutonic Panda on September 23, 2020, 05:06:24 PM
Thankfully the toll lanes are being dropped from consideration

https://www2.ljworld.com/news/city-government/2020/sep/22/kdot-recommends-open-access-highway-for-slt-expansion-over-option-with-tolled-express-lanes/?fbclid=IwAR1IQTKQ3R02xrOhchRd_WPAPM1RBV0h5qZDM1O7P2hqcfaHv4yfC7-SNuw
Title: Re: KDOT announces K-10 South Lawrence Trafficway study
Post by: Ned Weasel on September 24, 2020, 09:42:00 PM
Quote from: Plutonic Panda on September 23, 2020, 05:06:24 PM
https://www2.ljworld.com/news/city-government/2020/sep/22/kdot-recommends-open-access-highway-for-slt-expansion-over-option-with-tolled-express-lanes/?fbclid=IwAR1IQTKQ3R02xrOhchRd_WPAPM1RBV0h5qZDM1O7P2hqcfaHv4yfC7-SNuw

Please tell me those inner loop ramps at the new K-10 and I-70 interchange will be separated from the EB I-70 mainline via a C-D roadway.
Title: Re: KDOT announces K-10 South Lawrence Trafficway study
Post by: Plutonic Panda on September 25, 2020, 12:58:37 AM
Quote from: stridentweasel on September 24, 2020, 09:42:00 PM
Quote from: Plutonic Panda on September 23, 2020, 05:06:24 PM
https://www2.ljworld.com/news/city-government/2020/sep/22/kdot-recommends-open-access-highway-for-slt-expansion-over-option-with-tolled-express-lanes/?fbclid=IwAR1IQTKQ3R02xrOhchRd_WPAPM1RBV0h5qZDM1O7P2hqcfaHv4yfC7-SNuw

Please tell me those inner loop ramps at the new K-10 and I-70 interchange will be separated from the EB I-70 mainline via a C-D roadway.
You would like to think a major DOT wouldn't put in an interchange design that literally almost every other DOT is working to eliminate.
Title: Re: KDOT announces K-10 South Lawrence Trafficway study
Post by: skluth on September 25, 2020, 04:04:51 PM
Quote from: Plutonic Panda on September 25, 2020, 12:58:37 AM
Quote from: stridentweasel on September 24, 2020, 09:42:00 PM
Quote from: Plutonic Panda on September 23, 2020, 05:06:24 PM
https://www2.ljworld.com/news/city-government/2020/sep/22/kdot-recommends-open-access-highway-for-slt-expansion-over-option-with-tolled-express-lanes/?fbclid=IwAR1IQTKQ3R02xrOhchRd_WPAPM1RBV0h5qZDM1O7P2hqcfaHv4yfC7-SNuw

Please tell me those inner loop ramps at the new K-10 and I-70 interchange will be separated from the EB I-70 mainline via a C-D roadway.
You would like to think a major DOT wouldn't put in an interchange design that literally almost every other DOT is working to eliminate.

I would hope KDOT is just floating this as a placeholder before coming up with design options for the interchange. The design in the article looks more like something from the 1950's before we knew how to design high-speed interchanges. I know most tolling in Kansas is electronic, but this interchange would be busy enough to require manned booths until ETC becomes standardized between states.

EDIT: I took a quick stab at a redesigned interchange and included it in the Redesigning Interchanges thread here (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=3618.1900).
Title: Re: KDOT announces K-10 South Lawrence Trafficway study
Post by: The Ghostbuster on September 25, 2020, 06:02:46 PM
When the Interstate 70/K-10 interchange is reconstructed from a service to a system interchange, would it be possible or likely that access to N. 1800 Rd./Farmer's Turnpike could be eliminated?
Title: Re: KDOT announces K-10 South Lawrence Trafficway study
Post by: Ned Weasel on September 25, 2020, 06:27:27 PM
Quote from: The Ghostbuster on September 25, 2020, 06:02:46 PM
When the Interstate 70/K-10 interchange is reconstructed from a service to a system interchange, would it be possible or likely that access to N. 1800 Rd./Farmer's Turnpike could be eliminated?

That was under consideration a while ago, and the idea was largely protested.  It's a county route and a pretty significant exurban arterial; it's worth it to keep access to it.
Title: Re: KDOT announces K-10 South Lawrence Trafficway study
Post by: route56 on February 17, 2021, 05:17:32 PM
[Thread Exhumation Permit 10-23 X-2021-01]

I received the following email blast regarding the SLT this afternoon

Quote from: KDOT Outreach
Hello!

We wanted to send a quick follow up to provide a SLT project status update. Since the last Virtual Public Meeting, the team has had the opportunity to hold an Advisory Group meeting in August and present to the Lawrence Chamber of Commerce in October, the City of Lawrence Commission, Lecompton City Council in November and the Lawrence Rotary Club in January of 2021. KDOT has also submitted the Draft SEIS Report document to Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) in Washington, DC. The team is addressing comments received and have a couple additional steps in the process. Due to COVID-19 the process has slowed down a bit and we expect it will be mid-to-late February before the documents are approved and we can schedule the Public Hearing. We anticipate the Public Hearing will take place late March.

The Public Hearing will have both in-person and virtual options for participation. Both opportunities will allow the public to submit comments for Project documentation.

Thank you for your patience. We appreciate your engagement with this important Project!

I presume the Draft SEIS will be made available in a PDF.
Title: Re: KDOT announces K-10 South Lawrence Trafficway study
Post by: route56 on May 03, 2021, 01:35:50 PM
Bump for the latest: The draft SEIS is out:

Quote from: KDOT Outreach
Please join the Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) and the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) for a Public Hearing, with virtual components, to provide comments on the Identified Preferred Alternative for the South Lawrence Trafficway (SLT) project. They have released the Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (SEIS) for public review. The public comment period is April 26 through June 21, 2021.

The Public Hearing will provide an overview of the project and present the draft preferred alternatives as part of the Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (SEIS). Participants will have the opportunity to submit comments to the project team.

The public can attend an in-person Public Hearing on Wednesday, May 26, 2021 from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Baker University Wetland Discover Center. There will be a presentation during each of the time slots and an opportunity to leave verbal comments with a Court Reporter, who will document them. To follow social distancing guidelines, participants must reserve a time slot.

With health and safety in mind, in addition to the in-person Public Hearing, KDOT and FHWA are offering multiple opportunities for participants to review the information and provide comments:


  • A Live Virtual Public Hearing will be held on Tuesday, May 25, 2021 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. It will include a presentation followed by an opportunity to leave verbal comments for the team. Visit the project website (http://www.slt-ks.org/) for event details.

  • A Virtual Open House will be available at www.slt-ks.org (http://www.slt-ks.org/) during the comment period for participants to view the materials online and submit comments through an electronic comment form.  Click here for direct access. (https://pima.kdotoutreach.com/public/event-registration/search?project_id=13728%26pe_guid=e82558c0-edf3-d718-e053-0100007fb73c)

  • The Draft SEIS Report will be available online as well as at the Lawrence Public Library and City of Lawrence City Hall, Public Works Office and Douglas County Public Works Office for the 45-day comment period.  Click here to review online (https://slt-ks.org/slt-draft-seis-documents/).
All opportunities will provide the same content and review the information from the Draft SEIS document which will provide information on the Identified Preferred Alternative and how it was evaluated. After the conclusion of the meetings, a summary of questions and comments will be posted on the project website.

The purpose of the SEIS is to evaluate options for improving the SLT, including review of reasonable alternatives that will enhance safety and improve congestion while supporting its use as a thriving corridor for the City of Lawrence and the surrounding region.

Visit www.slt-ks.org for full details and to sign up for project updates, including direct links and opportunities to provide your input!

If you need special assistance, would like to sign up for the in-person meeting, request a hard copy version or would like to discuss with a project team member please contact Kelsey Heavin at 816-527-2468 or info@slt-ks.org.
Title: Re: KDOT announces K-10 South Lawrence Trafficway study
Post by: mvak36 on May 03, 2021, 04:35:59 PM
Quote from: route56 on May 03, 2021, 01:35:50 PM
Bump for the latest: The draft SEIS is out:

Quote from: KDOT Outreach
Please join the Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) and the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) for a Public Hearing, with virtual components, to provide comments on the Identified Preferred Alternative for the South Lawrence Trafficway (SLT) project. They have released the Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (SEIS) for public review. The public comment period is April 26 through June 21, 2021.

The Public Hearing will provide an overview of the project and present the draft preferred alternatives as part of the Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (SEIS). Participants will have the opportunity to submit comments to the project team.

The public can attend an in-person Public Hearing on Wednesday, May 26, 2021 from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Baker University Wetland Discover Center. There will be a presentation during each of the time slots and an opportunity to leave verbal comments with a Court Reporter, who will document them. To follow social distancing guidelines, participants must reserve a time slot.

With health and safety in mind, in addition to the in-person Public Hearing, KDOT and FHWA are offering multiple opportunities for participants to review the information and provide comments:


  • A Live Virtual Public Hearing will be held on Tuesday, May 25, 2021 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. It will include a presentation followed by an opportunity to leave verbal comments for the team. Visit the project website (http://www.slt-ks.org/) for event details.

  • A Virtual Open House will be available at www.slt-ks.org (http://www.slt-ks.org/) during the comment period for participants to view the materials online and submit comments through an electronic comment form.  Click here for direct access. (https://pima.kdotoutreach.com/public/event-registration/search?project_id=13728%26pe_guid=e82558c0-edf3-d718-e053-0100007fb73c)

  • The Draft SEIS Report will be available online as well as at the Lawrence Public Library and City of Lawrence City Hall, Public Works Office and Douglas County Public Works Office for the 45-day comment period.  Click here to review online (https://slt-ks.org/slt-draft-seis-documents/).
All opportunities will provide the same content and review the information from the Draft SEIS document which will provide information on the Identified Preferred Alternative and how it was evaluated. After the conclusion of the meetings, a summary of questions and comments will be posted on the project website.

The purpose of the SEIS is to evaluate options for improving the SLT, including review of reasonable alternatives that will enhance safety and improve congestion while supporting its use as a thriving corridor for the City of Lawrence and the surrounding region.

Visit www.slt-ks.org for full details and to sign up for project updates, including direct links and opportunities to provide your input!

If you need special assistance, would like to sign up for the in-person meeting, request a hard copy version or would like to discuss with a project team member please contact Kelsey Heavin at 816-527-2468 or info@slt-ks.org.

Thanks for posting this. I found a fact sheet from the virtual open house: https://slt-ks.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/K-10_PubHearingFactsheet_Spring2021-1.pdf
Title: Re: KDOT announces K-10 South Lawrence Trafficway study
Post by: route56 on August 13, 2022, 03:37:42 PM
I'm exhuming this thread to indicate that the SEIS process has been completed

https://www2.ljworld.com/news/state-region/2022/apr/04/construction-to-expand-west-leg-of-slt-to-four-lanes-could-begin-in-2024-feds-grant-key-environmental-approval/
[Paywall warning]

The Final SEIS for the project [2022 SEIS] and Record of Decision are posted at the project website:

https://slt-ks.ksdot.gov/slt-final-seis-documents/

Construction is slated to begin in 2024. I'd assume that the project will be let about a year from now.

[EDIT 2/9/24: Changed URL of link to PDFs of the 2022 SEIS]
Title: Re: KDOT announces K-10 South Lawrence Trafficway study
Post by: The Ghostbuster on February 08, 2024, 11:23:53 AM
Will construction still begin on the South Lawrence Trafficway this year? Or will construction commence at a later date?
Title: Re: KDOT announces K-10 South Lawrence Trafficway study
Post by: route56 on February 09, 2024, 09:59:58 PM
I haven't seen a letting timetable for the SLT projects