On Tuesday (March 31) KDOT had a presentation in Lawrence on upgrading the western leg of the South Lawrence Trafficway.
The eastern leg, which was involved in a prolonged Environmental Impact Statement process and subsequent litigation in an attempt to keep the trafficway from going across the Baker Wetlands, is being built as a 4-lane freeway. The western leg, built in the mid 1990s, was built as a "super two." Upgrading the existing western leg of the SLT, needless to say, is a little more involved than adding the second carriageway.
Starting at the north/west end: K-10 currently ends at a folded-diamond interchange with the Turnpike, with a connection to the parallel N 1800 Road, also known as the "Farmer's Turnpike" or County Road 438. KDOT is looking at three options to make a free flowing freeway-to freeway junction. One option would create "flyover" ramps over top of the existing folded diamond, adding roundabouts to the folded diamond ramps, and keeping the connection to N 1800 intact. The other two options would convert the interchange into a "trumpet" with the access to N 1800 eliminated. To compensate for the loss of access to Lecompton from the namesake interchange, KDOT is proposing a new interchange at E 600 Road, (KTA MP 194) E 1000 Road, (KTA MP 198) or both.
At 6th Street (US 40), KDOT is proposing changing this interchange into a DDI. This was not part of the presentation, but is on KDOT's radar. As noted a while back, the interchange is now signalized with a span-wire installation.
At Bob Billings Parkway (N 1500 Road on the county road system) a diamond interchange is under construction.
The curve at Clinton Parkway has a design speed (and posted advisory speed) of 60 MPH. KDOT wants to re-align this curve for a 70 MPH design speed, which would likely require the property of some recently-constructed houses. Interchange options here include a regular diamond, folded diamond, and something called a "Offset SPUI," where the ramps to/from westbound K-10 cross over the mainline and intersect Clinton Parkway at a roundabout along with the ramps to-from eastbound K-10.
Another option would be to eliminate the interchange at Clinton Parkway altogether, and build a diamond interchange further to the east. In this scenario, a new frontage road would be built along the west side of K-10, and the primary entrance to Clinton Lake from the north would be via the Bob Billings Parkway interchange.
On the original 1990 EIS, the area to the southwest of the existing traffic light at 27th Street was marked as an "Area of no planned recreational activity." By the time the SLT was opened, recreational facilities had been built in that area. This has led to congestion at that light, especially on the weekends. Options include building a diamond or folded diamond interchange here, with different ways of configuring the local streets, or buiding the interchange to the southeast at Inverness instead.
The current at-grade intersection at Kasold Drive will be eliminated. Either the SLT would go over Kasold, or Kasold would be cut off entirely.
EDIT 6/10/16 Eventually, the intersection at Kasold will be eliminated, see posts downthread.
Needless to say if you follow Kansas politics: No funding sources for the proposed improvements to the SLT western leg have been identified, and construction is several years away.
What are the odds that SLT opponents, angry that they lost on the east half, will come back out of hiding to protest any upgrades to the western half of it?
Quote from: Scott5114 on April 02, 2015, 08:48:18 PM
What are the odds that SLT opponents, angry that they lost on the east half, will come back out of hiding to protest any upgrades to the western half of it?
Haven't heard anything suggesting that, nor have I heard of any instances of vandalism on the SLT construction site.
What happened to the plans of rerouting US-59 along that alignment and running the freeway to US-24. That was mentioned in the Journal-World a few months ago.
Quote from: mrcontroversy on April 04, 2015, 02:25:22 AM
What happened to the plans of rerouting US-59 along that alignment and running the freeway to US-24. That was mentioned in the Journal-World a few months ago.
I can't seem to find it in the recent J-W archives anything about the possibility of extending the Trafficway north; last time I heard it suggested, it was quickly shot down.
It seems a sensible option for a direct route and bypass of Lawrence; it's a pretty straight shot from the W end of K-10 to the 24/59 junction in Williamstown.
Direct route? O HAY! Speaking of that, why not just have US40 leave I-70 at US75, and follow US24 to US59?
I GOT YER MILEAGE CAP RIGHT HERE!!
*Ahem.* This is fictional highways territory, isn't it?
Did the US 40 signs move onto K-10? I know that was supposed to happen but couldn't find any follow-ups.
Quote from: Jeff Morrison on April 23, 2015, 12:21:00 AM
Did the US 40 signs move onto K-10? I know that was supposed to happen but couldn't find any follow-ups.
US 40 is still signed along 6th Street, and I have not seen any Highway Resolution or CCL Resolution that indicates that it has happened, either.
However, last year, two of the city's major intersections, 6th and Iowa and 23rd and Iowa, were rebuilt. The new signal-mounted street blades on Iowa at 23rd only show US 59 (with K-10 not present at all in anticipation of the SLT eastern leg completion). The blades on Iowa at 6th carry both the US 40 and US 59 shields (in apparent contradiction to the guide signs on the ground)
I have just driven past that project myself and it looks rather impressive. The completed product will be a welcome sight for those driving through Lawrence as they won't have to fight with traffic lights especially the ones at 23d/Clinton and US59 - and 31st Street.
[Thread exhumation permit number 10-23 K-1501]
KDOT sent out a survey this afternoon regarding public input for proposed improvements to the western leg of the SLT.
Much of the survey was focused on whether the Clinton Parkway interchange should be retained. KDOT has narrowed its suggested improvements along this stretch: They now recommend building a modified DDI southeast of the current traffic signal at Wakarusa and creating a grade separation at Wakarusa. A new east-west road would connect the interchange to Wakarusa, but would not connect to local roads north of K-10. At the current Clinton Parkway interchange, they either propose rebuilding it (no specific design indicated) or eliminating it. If the interchange was eliminated, Clinton Parkway would still pass under the SLT. Access to Clinton Lake would either be via an extended Frontage Road connecting to the Bob Billings Parkway interchange, or via the Wakarusa interchange and Clinton Parkway.
The other design consideration is at the K-10/I-70 connection. It has been narrowed down to either a six-ramp interchange with flyover ramps between K-10 and I-70, or two separate interchanges, a trumpet connecting I-70 to K-10 only and a diamond interchange at E 600 Road south of Lecompton.
Access to Kasold would be eliminated, and the existing Kasold would dead-end at K-10.
In other news: A major milestone has been reached on the SLT construction project, as the new 31st Street opened to traffic August 7.
(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/323/20396468692_1f70dd9fb8.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/x5nexj)
51899 (https://flic.kr/p/x5nexj) by Richie Kennedy (https://www.flickr.com/photos/richiekennedy56/), on Flickr
SLT Construction - East (https://flic.kr/s/aHskhLd5nm) Flickr album by me
Oh wow. Google Satellite view shows progress (Edit: on the eastern leg) coming along quite nicely. I had no idea... When is it expected to open?
Related to the current construction on the east leg, these two youtube videos (first one from KDOT, second one from Baker) related to the dedication of the new Discovery Center built as part of the mitigation project.
[Made slight change to the subject line to include current construction activity into this thread]
A traffic shift has occurred on K-10... Eastbound traffic has been shifted onto the new 23rd Street to Eastbound K-10 ramp. Traffic is still one lane each direction. This configuration should remain until next spring.
Photos of the new eastbound 23rd to eastbound K-10 ramp (which currently serves one lane of eastbound K-10)
(https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5788/23273147380_bef6c337df_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/BsyXTJ)
52604 (https://flic.kr/p/BsyXTJ) by Richie Kennedy (https://www.flickr.com/photos/richiekennedy56/), on Flickr
Eventually, this will hold two BGSs indicating K-10 east in the left lane, K-10 west in the right. (note that it is the traditional "box" style truss and not the triangular truss being used in the Johnson County Gateway project)
(https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5820/23273140110_2306592b17_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/BsyVJo)
52608 (https://flic.kr/p/BsyVJo) by Richie Kennedy (https://www.flickr.com/photos/richiekennedy56/), on Flickr
New eastbound 23rd Street to westbound K-10 ramp.
(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/642/22940633264_c46708b431_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/AXbK2J)
52609 (https://flic.kr/p/AXbK2J) by Richie Kennedy (https://www.flickr.com/photos/richiekennedy56/), on Flickr
Tri-level junction: EB K-10 to 23rd on Top, 23rd to EB K-10 in the middle, new K-10 mainline below
(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/641/23460329012_efbdaf4fe5_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/BK7jtf)
52611 (https://flic.kr/p/BK7jtf) by Richie Kennedy (https://www.flickr.com/photos/richiekennedy56/), on Flickr
New eastbound K-10 lanes.
The inherent loss of access in turning a road into a freeway rears its ugly head:
http://m.ljworld.com/news/2016/feb/15/lecompton-area-residents-have-chance-voice-concern/
The folks in northwestern Douglas County (Including, full disclosure, both my sisters) are miffed that KDOT's plans to make the K-10/I-70 junction a freeway-to-freeway connection will result in the loss of direct access to K-10
http://m.ljworld.com/weblogs/town_talk/2016/feb/15/debate-brewing-over-possible-closure-of-/
Meanwhile, on the south end, KDOT doesn't want to wait to eliminate an at-grade.
iPhone
Quote from: route56 on February 15, 2016, 09:35:10 PM
The inherent loss of access in turning a road into a freeway rears its ugly head:
http://m.ljworld.com/news/2016/feb/15/lecompton-area-residents-have-chance-voice-concern/
The folks in northwestern Douglas County (Including, full disclosure, both my sisters) are miffed that KDOT's plans to make the K-10/I-70 junction a freeway-to-freeway connection will result in the loss of direct access to K-10
I was tempted to say KDOT and the KTA should build a double-trumpet there with a single toll plaza, just like traditional freeway-to-turnpike connections, but there doesn't seem to be enough space for it or anything similar. Paving E 800 Road between CR 438 and US 40 would alleviate some of these concerns, however. Also, at the existing K-10/Turnpike interchange, they could simply build separate roadways for EB-to-EB traffic and WB-to-WB traffic to bypass the at-grade intersections (albeit at slow speeds), although this wouldn't address the WB-to-EB connections.
Is there a diagram anywhere showing the option to build the flyover ramps you mentioned in the original post on this thread? Also, is there a diagram for the "Alternative B" referenced in the article?
(I made a small edit to the first paragraph of this response.)
So will they do electronic tolling at the I-70 interchange? Or toll booths like the rest of the turnpike?
Quote from: mvak36 on February 15, 2016, 11:24:18 PM
So will they do electronic tolling at the I-70 interchange? Or toll booths like the rest of the turnpike?
I don't know when the KTA will actually implement AET, but Exit 197 handles too much non-local traffic to make it a K-TAG/PikePass-only interchange (and it lacks a reasonable alternative, unlike the situation with future Exit 52), so tickets and cash payments need to remain available there until the entire Turnpike is converted to AET.
(Revised response.)
Quote from: stridentweasel on February 15, 2016, 11:18:03 PM
Is there a diagram anywhere showing the option to build the flyover ramps you mentioned in the original post on this thread? Also, is there a diagram for the "Alternative B" referenced in the article?
http://www.ksdot.org/Assets/wwwksdotorg/bureaus/TopekaMetro/pdf2015/K10WestLegPIOHboards1-3.pdf
The diagram (the two options you're looking for are one and the same) is on page 2.
This probably won't happen, but it would be cool to see them make K-10 an interstate once they're done. I-870???? :bigass:
If the upgrades go through, I'd like to see the highway have its exits numbered, although somehow I doubt it would happen.
Quote from: The Ghostbuster on February 16, 2016, 04:50:08 PM
If the upgrades go through, I'd like to see the highway have its exits numbered, although somehow I doubt it would happen.
I don't think Kansas does that for non-interstate freeways, which a shame. Heck, even Iowa does that!
Quote from: route56 on February 16, 2016, 07:13:47 AM
Quote from: stridentweasel on February 15, 2016, 11:18:03 PM
Is there a diagram anywhere showing the option to build the flyover ramps you mentioned in the original post on this thread? Also, is there a diagram for the "Alternative B" referenced in the article?
http://www.ksdot.org/Assets/wwwksdotorg/bureaus/TopekaMetro/pdf2015/K10WestLegPIOHboards1-3.pdf
The diagram (the two options you're looking for are one and the same) is on page 2.
Thanks for the link! Something occurred to me-- Has KDOT abandoned the idea of building a new US 59 alignment between US 24 and the western terminus of K-10 (which, of course, would involve routing US 59 onto the western leg of the South Lawrence Trafficway and would divert US 59 traffic off of Lawrence surface streets)? I hope KDOT realizes that, if the new US 59 alignment is still under consideration as a future project, then "Alternative A" could end up being more costly in the long term.
Quote from: SD Mapman on February 16, 2016, 11:28:17 PM
Quote from: The Ghostbuster on February 16, 2016, 04:50:08 PM
If the upgrades go through, I'd like to see the highway have its exits numbered, although somehow I doubt it would happen.
I don't think Kansas does that for non-interstate freeways, which a shame. Heck, even Iowa does that!
The 2009 MUTCD mandates that they do. As KDOT sticks fairly close to the MUTCD, I wouldn't be surprised to see them start at some point.
Quote from: Scott5114 on February 17, 2016, 11:43:44 PM
Quote from: SD Mapman on February 16, 2016, 11:28:17 PM
Quote from: The Ghostbuster on February 16, 2016, 04:50:08 PM
If the upgrades go through, I'd like to see the highway have its exits numbered, although somehow I doubt it would happen.
I don't think Kansas does that for non-interstate freeways, which a shame. Heck, even Iowa does that!
The 2009 MUTCD mandates that they do. As KDOT sticks fairly close to the MUTCD, I wouldn't be surprised to see them start at some point.
Might be a regional thing; both NE and MO don't do it either.
That's not entirely true. Here in the St. Louis area, MO 364 and MO 370 (both of which are freeways) have exit numbers, and neither of them are interstates.
Quote from: m2tbone on February 19, 2016, 07:49:08 AM
That's not entirely true. Here in the St. Louis area, MO 364 and MO 370 (both of which are freeways) have exit numbers, and neither of them are interstates.
That's what I get for just checking Kansas City!
Quote from: The Ghostbuster on February 16, 2016, 04:50:08 PMIf the upgrades go through, I'd like to see the highway have its exits numbered, although somehow I doubt it would happen.
I have never seen any evidence that this requirement is even on KDOT's radar and I don't think it will be complied with unless someone (probably at FHWA) hits them over the head with it.
It has been suggested that KDOT is not using exit numbers on non-Interstate freeways because it does not count them as freeways. I am skeptical of this theory for two reasons. First, the non-Interstates without exit numbers do meet the
MUTCD definition of freeways, which is operative (under Kansas' direct-adoption law) when considering whether a route must have exit numbers, and it is the stated policy intent of the current edition of
MUTCD to extend the requirement to have exit numbers to all freeways other than Interstates. Second, the break between the types of freeways for which KDOT does not use exit numbers (Interstates versus non-Interstates) does not match up with the break KDOT could plausibly cite as a rationale for not using exit numbers on all freeways if it were called on it by FHWA (freeways with specialization by vehicle class versus freeways without). (In Kansas a freeway with specialization by vehicle class has signs at all on-ramps indicating which classes of vehicles cannot use it--"Pedestrians, Animals Led - Ridden - Driven," etc. Kansas freeways so specialized include all Interstates, K-10 between Lawrence and I-435, and US 81 north of Salina. Freeways without it include Kellogg Avenue and the short length of K-96 northwest of I-235.)
Many non-Interstates here in Wisconsin have exit numbers. It's too bad other states don't do the same IMHO.
Quote from: J N Winkler on February 19, 2016, 01:54:47 PM
(In Kansas a freeway with specialization by vehicle class has signs at all on-ramps indicating which classes of vehicles cannot use it--"Pedestrians, Animals Led - Ridden - Driven," etc. Kansas freeways so specialized include all Interstates, K-10 between Lawrence and I-435, and US 81 north of Salina. Freeways without it include Kellogg Avenue and the short length of K-96 northwest of I-235.)
Only the section between Lawrence and Evening Star Road (the first exit in Johnson County) is 'specialized'
iPhone
KDOT will be re-evaluating the north end
Quote from: Ryan Barrett, P.E., Special Requirements Engineer, Kansas Department of Transportation
In an effort to keep you updated on the status of work related to the K-10 West Leg SLT Concept Study, we have the following update related to the north end of the project area. At the request of the Heritage Baptist Church, KDOT presented at a March 3, 2016 meeting regarding the K-10 West Leg Concept Study and listened to public input on the alternatives for improvement of the I-70/K-10 Interchange and associated roadways. KDOT takes the responsibility to maintain a safe and efficient transportation system seriously. Public comments and input received at this meeting provided additional insights into community concerns.
Nearly 400 people attended the meeting and close to 50 verbal and written comments were received from the attendees.
While there were many comments, the general theme can be summarized to reflect the following concerns:
- Condition of local roads and desire for local road improvements on U.S. 40 and County Roads E. 600 and E. 800 Roads where traffic may shift instead of using I-70 to access K-10.
- Relocating local access from K-10 highway and Farmer's Turnpike to Lecompton Road was seen as unacceptable because it requires a toll payment to access K-10 from I-70. Several residents do not support tolling this portion of the trip. Because some travelers may consider the surrounding roads unsafe options they do not support using I-70 to access K-10 as the only viable option.
- Condition of the county roads was deemed unsafe from a First Responder perspective. Additionally, the proposed Preferred Access Alternative created concern regarding response times and delays with staff getting to work and being able to respond to incidents in a timely manner.
In response to concerns raised at the March 3rd meeting, KDOT is reevaluating the Preferred Access Alternative including options for local road improvements to U.S. 40 and investigating configurations that provide local access to K-10 at Farmer's Turnpike while maintaining the safety and operational requirements of a highway to highway connection between I-70 and K-10.
Also in response to the concern that the public did not have adequate opportunity to provide input, KDOT will engage the community through additional workshops or public meetings to gather input and information on options for local road improvements and potential new configurations for local access to K-10. KDOT will also continue to work with local public officials so they can be aware of modifications to the existing alternatives, new alternatives and potential implications of these for the community.
Overall, it will take several months to re-evaluate alternatives, engage the public and stakeholders, evaluate input, and identify a proposed solution. Please look for meeting notifications later this spring and summer as they become available. At these meetings KDOT will provide updates on the Proposed Access Alternatives, the timeline for moving forward and interim solutions that could be considered until the ultimate improvements to K-10 are made.
As a reminder, there is no funding for construction of any long-term improvements at this time, but KDOT wants to have the improvement plans in place so when funding is available, construction can move forward.
We appreciate your consideration and encourage you to provide input throughout the process.
(Of note: I received this email blast via Robyn Arthur at HNTB, rather than through Kim Qualls at KDOT)In addition, KDOT has put the closure of the at-grade intersection with Kasold Drive on hold for the time being.
http://www2.ljworld.com/news/2016/apr/08/alternatives-farmers-turnpike-kasold-drive-closure/?print
As for the Baker Wetlands, an article in this morning's paper indicates that the mitigation project has exceeded the expectations of its primary caretaker.
http://www2.ljworld.com/news/2016/apr/10/expanded-baker-wetlands-proving-resource-wildlife-/?print
The later article has drawn a tounge-in-cheek response in the comments section. "Say it isn't so. This is lie. K-10 and KDOT have ruined the wetlands right?" As of this posting (12:15 PM 4/10/16) it is the only comment on this article.
Photos from 4/15/16:
(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1714/26459373072_6139918d92_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/Gj8cMs)
53279 (https://flic.kr/p/Gj8cMs) by Richie Kennedy (https://www.flickr.com/photos/richiekennedy56/), on Flickr
Yes, a 45 MPH speed limit on K-10 through the work zone.
(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1501/26551733565_7baa082e09_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/GshzkK)
53280 (https://flic.kr/p/GshzkK) by Richie Kennedy (https://www.flickr.com/photos/richiekennedy56/), on Flickr
Traffic moving Head-to-head in the eastbound K-10 lanes
(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1505/26485704941_1d0feede21_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/Gmsakc)
53284 (https://flic.kr/p/Gmsakc) by Richie Kennedy (https://www.flickr.com/photos/richiekennedy56/), on Flickr
Two lanes squeezed onto a one-lane road: both directions of traffic are moving on the 23rd Street/Eastbound K-10 ramp.
(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1621/26459455772_71e53b4a03_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/Gj8Cnj)
53287 (https://flic.kr/p/Gj8Cnj) by Richie Kennedy (https://www.flickr.com/photos/richiekennedy56/), on Flickr
The road widens out where the ramp from 23rd to Westbound K-10 joins.
KDOT held a public open house regarding the situation with K-10 and Kasold. Basically, the options are to leave the intersection alone until KDOT gets money allocated for converting the western leg of the SLT to freeway, put in a traffic signal, make Kasold a right-in/right-out intersection, or to go ahead and dead-end Kasold now.
The intersection is situated in a narrow strip between the Yankee Tank Creek and the Wakarusa River floodways. There is no room to build an interchange or have Kasold go over K-10 without impacting the floodway, and raising K-10 is not being favored either. Also, KDOT has indicated it will not consider lowering the speed limit from its current 65 MPH, nor will they accept a design with a sub-65 MPH design speed.
UPDATE!: KDOT has sent a final report (http://lawrenceks.org/assets/agendas/cc/2016/06-14-16/fai_pw_kdot_kasold_k10_final_report.pdf) to the city of Lawrence (and, presumably to Douglas County, also) regarding the Kasold intersection. They are recommending that the junction be re-striped for right-in/right-out access.
Based on the commentary of some of my friends on facebook, I feel like they were wanting the intersection with Kasold to remain open permanently, which obviously goes against KDOT's ultimate plans (http://"http://www.ksdot.org/Assets/wwwksdotorg/bureaus/TopekaMetro/pdf2016/K-10_PublicMeetingBoards_PublicMeeting3_FINAL13.jpg").
From July 30, 2016:
I saw the (speed zone) sign:
(https://c7.staticflickr.com/9/8109/28625350366_d25a882b37_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/KBwpny)
54149 (https://flic.kr/p/KBwpny) by Richie Kennedy (https://www.flickr.com/photos/richiekennedy56/), on Flickr
Climbed up the rock terrace for this shot -- will NOT attempt it again:
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8680/28625354696_3b6b37cd41_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/KBwqEd)
54151 (https://flic.kr/p/KBwqEd) by Richie Kennedy (https://www.flickr.com/photos/richiekennedy56/), on Flickr
Noise wall separating the wetlands from the SLT:
(https://c5.staticflickr.com/9/8889/28625360636_81d1b0e28c_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/KBwsqC)
54153 (https://flic.kr/p/KBwsqC) by Richie Kennedy (https://www.flickr.com/photos/richiekennedy56/), on Flickr
Not a wasteland:
(https://c7.staticflickr.com/9/8855/28373384430_c4e4ed0252_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/Keg1Fh)
54156 (https://flic.kr/p/Keg1Fh) by Richie Kennedy (https://www.flickr.com/photos/richiekennedy56/), on Flickr
Shot over a low part of the noise wall:
(https://c4.staticflickr.com/9/8177/28041510003_e489feabb6_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/JHW4Yp)
54161 (https://flic.kr/p/JHW4Yp) by Richie Kennedy (https://www.flickr.com/photos/richiekennedy56/), on Flickr
The reconfiguration of the SLT and Kasold is part of the September Letting. (https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=15260.msg2170096#msg2170096)
Nutshell: The Westbound K-10 to 23rd Street ramp opens to traffic tomorrow. The Speed Limit on 23rd between K-10 and Harper will be permanently reduced to 45 MPH. (prior to the start of construction, 23rd was 55 from Harper to O'Connell, 65 from O'Connell to Noria Road; currently, eastbound 23rd has already been reduced to 45 MPH, westbound had a few stray 55 MPH signs still up)
Quote from: Kim Qualls
Westbound K-10 to Westbound 23rd Street PERMANENT CONFIGURATION TRAFFIC SWITCH > > #K10SLT EAST LEG
TRAFFIC SWITCH: Westbound K-10 to westbound 23rd Street traffic from E 1900 Road to O'Connell Road will be switched to the final permanent configuration during the day, TOMORROW, Thursday, September 8, weather permitting in Lawrence (Douglas County).
Here's what this means for drivers > Permanent traffic changes on this stretch of roadway include one lane only for westbound traffic and a posted 45 mph speed limit.
Updated traffic information for the K-10 East Leg South Lawrence Trafficway Project can be viewed online: www.ksdot.org/topekametro/laneclose.asp. An aerial map of the new K-10 South Lawrence Trafficway, including construction phasing and traffic impacts, can be found online at: http://www.ksdot.org/topekaMetro/projectstudytest.asp.
The Kansas Department of Transportation urges all motorists to be alert, take it slow, obey the warning signs, and "Give "˜Em a Brake!" when approaching and driving through the project work zone.
The overall scheduled completion date for the K-10 South Lawrence Trafficway Project is Fall 2016, weather permitting. (KDOT T-WORKS Project #10-23 K-8392-04)
Quote from: route56 on September 07, 2016, 10:56:52 PM
The Speed Limit on 23rd between K-10 and Harper will be permanently reduced to 45 MPH. (prior to the start of construction, 23rd was 55 from Harper to O'Connell, 65 from O'Connell to Noria Road; currently, eastbound 23rd has already been reduced to 45 MPH, westbound had a few stray 55 MPH signs still up)
That's ridiculous! Kansas is usually pretty good about not setting speed limits too low, but I suppose when a road is turned over to cities or counties, absurd speed limits can happen. If I recall correctly, I don't think the prevailing traffic speed on (soon-to-be-former) K-10 between O'Connell Rd. and Noria Rd. was ever significantly less than 55 M.P.H. before the SLT-related construction zone was put in place (not counting what it may have been prior to the four-lane, divided configuration that we've known for years), but I don't have the data to prove it.
Well, it's been practically 20 years in the making, but KDOT will have a ribbon cutting for the SLT on November 4 at 10:00. Right now, I doubt I will make it
They plan to do the ribbon cutting at the east end, near the K-10 merge, then open up the wetlands segment to walking and cycling from noon to 1:30, weather permitting.
Press release announcing the K-10/Kasold reconfiguration:
Quote from: Kim Qualls
K-10 & E 1200 Road Intersection Improvement Project > > #K10SLT West Leg
24/7 FULL ROAD CLOSURE: Northbound and southbound E 1200 Road at K-10 intersection CLOSED for intersection configuration work beginning at 9 a.m. on Monday, November 7 through Friday, November 18, weather permitting as crews convert the existing intersection into a right in, right out access in Lawrence (Douglas County). There will little to no traffic impacts for K-10 traffic.
Project work includes the removal and addition of new permanent pavement markings and the installation of delineators for directing traffic through the right in right out movements at the intersection. Once the intersection improvement project is complete access to/from K-10 to E 1200 Road and vice versa will be right in and right out traffic movements only.
Advance message boards will alert traffic to the full road closure. No marked detour will be provided. Drivers should expect minor delays and must use alternate routes during the full road closure.
Updated traffic information for this project and for the entire Lawrence Metro Area can be viewed online at: http://www.ksdot.org/bureaus/TopekaMetro/laneclose.asp.
The Kansas Department of Transportation urges all motorists to be alert, take it slow, obey the warning signs, and "Give "˜Em a Brake!" when approaching and driving through the project work zone.
Cillessen & Sons (Kechi, KS) is the primary contractor on this $79,798 intersection improvement project. (KDOT T-WORKS Project #10-23 K 3634-04)
KDOT previously indicated that they did not want to open the East Leg of the SLT until Kasold was done, so I would anticipate that the SLT east leg will open barely in time for Turkey Day the week of the 21st.
I chose to earn a living over going to the ribbon cutting (I wasn't at the groundbreaking for the western leg 20+ years ago either, FWIW)
As part of the ribbon cutting, KDOT announced that the opening of the trafficway will be this Wednesday, November 9
Of course, the Lawrence Journal-World has coverage of the ribbon cutting and of what happened that led up to it.
http://www2.ljworld.com/news/2016/nov/03/after-more-two-decades-argument-slt-open-reflectio/
http://www2.ljworld.com/news/2016/nov/04/leaders-laud-completion-slt-ribbon-cutting-road-op/
Awesome! I will be using this on my way to Colorado in a month when I shunpike I-70.
Drove by this on Monday and some of the overhead assemblies for the unopened freeway had yet to be installed. There are only two signs for K-10 on the current route westbound: one where K-10 turns south onto U.S. 59, and another after their merge. Not much to take down on November 9th in other words.
Also noted that K-10 was the only road that used county pentagons on exit signs that we drove in Kansas this week. Notably the former south end of U.S. 81 Business east of Lindsborg is CR 429, but signs on I-135 solely reference Smokey Valley Road.
Quote from: Alex on November 05, 2016, 12:05:35 AM
Also noted that K-10 was the only road that used county pentagons on exit signs that we drove in Kansas this week. Notably the former south end of U.S. 81 Business east of Lindsborg is CR 429, but signs on I-135 solely reference Smokey Valley Road.
The only other ones I know about are on US 59 south of Lawrence and at US 73 and 20th Street on the north side of Leavenworth.
Quote from: Alex on November 05, 2016, 12:05:35 AM
Drove by this on Monday and some of the overhead assemblies for the unopened freeway had yet to be installed. There are only two signs for K-10 on the current route westbound: one where K-10 turns south onto U.S. 59, and another after their merge. Not much to take down on November 9th in other words.
While you were in the area, did you happen to notice how US 40 is signed?
Quote from: yakra on November 06, 2016, 12:18:24 PM
Quote from: Alex on November 05, 2016, 12:05:35 AM
Drove by this on Monday and some of the overhead assemblies for the unopened freeway had yet to be installed. There are only two signs for K-10 on the current route westbound: one where K-10 turns south onto U.S. 59, and another after their merge. Not much to take down on November 9th in other words.
While you were in the area, did you happen to notice how US 40 is signed?
That's a probably a good question for Richie.
We followed the mainline of K-10 from the South Lawrence Trafficway onto its soon to be former surface street alignment through Lawrence, and then the super-two bypass around the west side of the city to I-70.
Quote from: Alex on November 06, 2016, 06:49:22 PM
Quote from: yakra on November 06, 2016, 12:18:24 PM
While you were in the area, did you happen to notice how US 40 is signed?
That's a probably a good question for Richie.
US 40 is still signed on West 6th
:sombrero:
Quote from: route56 on November 04, 2016, 11:31:37 PM
I chose to earn a living over going to the ribbon cutting ...
Aw c'mon, you'e got to reorder those priorities :bigass: :bigass: :bigass:
Quote from: rte66man on November 07, 2016, 07:05:24 PM
:sombrero:Quote from: route56 on November 04, 2016, 11:31:37 PM
I chose to earn a living over going to the ribbon cutting ...
Aw c'mon, you'e got to reorder those priorities :bigass: :bigass: :bigass:
Gotta pay for my Sentra somehow :sombrero:
KDOT has posted pics and video of the ribbon cutting:
https://www.facebook.com/NEKansasKDOT/photos/?tab=album&album_id=963139597121400
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/6/5531/30958555176_a219bdee55_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/PaGFSG)
54832 (https://flic.kr/p/PaGFSG) by Richie Kennedy (https://www.flickr.com/photos/richiekennedy56/), on Flickr
Advance BGS on eastbound 23rd Street for the ramps to the SLT.
(https://c3.staticflickr.com/6/5537/30958594466_e5a0e45184_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/PaGTy7)
54835 (https://flic.kr/p/PaGTy7) by Richie Kennedy (https://www.flickr.com/photos/richiekennedy56/), on Flickr
Eastbound 23rd splits into ramps for Eastbound and Westbound K-10.
(https://c8.staticflickr.com/6/5586/30905696471_1eeb59c12a_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/P62LPH)
54839 (https://flic.kr/p/P62LPH) by Richie Kennedy (https://www.flickr.com/photos/richiekennedy56/), on Flickr
Westbound SLT at Haskell. Note advance guide sign for 59.
Looks like your camera has too short of a shutter speed. My Nikon D5100 did that often as well...
I keep a circular polarizer on my lenses. They do tend to cause underexposure. I'm also shooting into the sun.
(https://c4.staticflickr.com/6/5481/30993721355_56539f41b5_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/PdNVy8)
54840 (https://flic.kr/p/PdNVy8) by Richie Kennedy (https://www.flickr.com/photos/richiekennedy56/), on Flickr
K-10 marker past the Haskell interchange, with the noise wall separating the SLT from 31st and the Haskell Campus.
(https://c2.staticflickr.com/6/5524/30993743745_a798aee455_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/PdP3da)
54842 (https://flic.kr/p/PdP3da) by Richie Kennedy (https://www.flickr.com/photos/richiekennedy56/), on Flickr
Second advance marker for the US 59/Iowa interchange
(https://c3.staticflickr.com/6/5589/30958695546_9c84d3c48c_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/PaHpAS)
54844 (https://flic.kr/p/PaHpAS) by Richie Kennedy (https://www.flickr.com/photos/richiekennedy56/), on Flickr
Third advance marker for the US 59/Iowa interchange
(https://c2.staticflickr.com/6/5525/30905767721_4c7f5ce4a9_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/P6391a)
54845 (https://flic.kr/p/P6391a) by Richie Kennedy (https://www.flickr.com/photos/richiekennedy56/), on Flickr
The ribbon-cutting banner across westbound K-10 at Michigan Street
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/6/5803/22815334008_4c3e36f2d9_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/AL7xVJ)
54846 (https://flic.kr/p/AL7xVJ) by Richie Kennedy (https://www.flickr.com/photos/richiekennedy56/), on Flickr
US 59 pavement marking.
(https://c8.staticflickr.com/6/5746/30905861431_296aedf8ef_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/P63BRR)
54849 (https://flic.kr/p/P63BRR) by Richie Kennedy (https://www.flickr.com/photos/richiekennedy56/), on Flickr
Driving across the "Bridge to Nowhere"
(https://c8.staticflickr.com/6/5498/30905876311_244cae9375_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/P63Ghp)
54850 (https://flic.kr/p/P63Ghp) by Richie Kennedy (https://www.flickr.com/photos/richiekennedy56/), on Flickr
Transitioning onto the older two lane segment.
Can't wait until I get to drive on this in less than a month. :)
This press release just came in regarding the west leg. Commentary posted below.
Quote from: Kim Qualls
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 21, 2016
News Contact: Kimberly Qualls, (785) 640-9340 or kimberly.qualls@ks.gov, Aaron Frits, P.E., (785) 296-4139 or aaron.frits@ks.gov
K-10 SLT West Leg Study Update: SEIS Process to Begin Next Spring
In order to keep local stakeholders and the public informed, the Kansas Department of Transportation would like to provide an update on the status of the K-10 South Lawrence Trafficway West Leg Study in Lawrence (Douglas County).
After listening to public comments and stakeholder input on the K-10 West Leg Study and alternatives for improvement to the I-70/K-10/Farmer's Turnpike Interchange and adjacent roadways, KDOT has spent the past several months reviewing options for moving forward and discussing what is in the best interest of the K-10 corridor in serving transportation needs across the region. Preferred Access Alternatives and local road improvements have been a part of these ongoing discussions.
KDOT has decided to re-evaluate the K-10 corridor and the I-70/K-10/Farmer's Turnpike interchange through a Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (SEIS). 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 SEIS process will begin sometime spring 2017 and is expected to take approximately three years to complete. Throughout the process, KDOT will engage the community through stakeholder and public meetings/workshops to provide updates and gather input. KDOT will also continue to work with local public officials so that they are aware of modifications, new alternatives and potential implications of these on the community.
As a reminder, there is currently no funding for construction of any long-term improvements, but KDOT desires to continue with the design process so that when funding becomes available, construction can move forward.
We appreciate your input and encourage you to stay engaged as the study moves forward and the SEIS process begins. If you would like to receive updates, meeting notices and related information via email on the K-10 SLT West Leg Study, please send your email address to kimberly.qualls@ks.gov.
For more information on the K-10 SLT West Leg Study, please visit the study online at: http://www.ksdot.org/bureaus/TopekaMetro/projectstudytest.asp
For questions or additional information on the study, you can contact Aaron Frits, P.E., KDOT Project Manager, at aaron.frits@ks.gov or Kimberly Qualls, NE KDOT Public Affairs Manager at kimberly.qualls@ks.gov. (KDOT Project #10-23 KA-3634-04)
First off, I have not heard anything that indicates that any environmental groups were pressuring KDOT into going back into the NEPA process. That being said, I wouldn't consider a NEPA review unjustified - the design of the SLT and the land use out on the west leg have changed significantly since the original EIS was completed in 1990. I'm scratching my head wondering why this is being considered a supplement to the 1990 EIS. In my mind, the 4-laning of the west leg is a new project and, therefore, it should be considered as a new EIS.
I'm surprised there would be any debate at all about adding the second set of lanes to the SLT between Iowa Street and the I-70 interchange West of town. The right of way is already secured. The road is already limited access and has freeway style exits for the most part, except for the W 27th street intersection.
The interchange with K-10/SLT and I-70 is really the only huge project I see looming ahead for this corridor. The existing interchange could actually be left as is, if the traffic levels aren't very high. But sticking stop signs or traffic lights in between a tollway to freeway connection kind of stinks. There's not enough room to build a cloverleaf interchange. A modified trumpet interchange or modified T interchange that preserves the exit for E 850 Rd would probably fit just fine.
Quote from: Bobby5280 on November 21, 2016, 03:15:01 PM
I'm surprised there would be any debate at all about adding the second set of lanes to the SLT between Iowa Street and the I-70 interchange West of town. The right of way is already secured. The road is already limited access and has freeway style exits for the most part, except for the W 27th street intersection.
If it were as simple as adding the second carriageway adjacent to the existing lanes, then this would clearly be a Finding Of No Significant Impact, and an EIS/SEIS would not be required.
The kicker here is that the SLT was not initially envisioned by its original proponents as a freeway. In addition to having a folded-diamond interchange with the Turnpike, the curve at the Clinton Parkway interchange is substandard. Fixing the curve for a 70 MPH design speed will likely mean that some houses (which were developed after the SLT opened to traffic) will have to be taken. The likelihood of these takings probably triggered the NEPA review.
Quote from: Bobby5280 on November 21, 2016, 03:15:01 PM
The interchange with K-10/SLT and I-70 is really the only huge project I see looming ahead for this corridor. The existing interchange could actually be left as is, if the traffic levels aren't very high. But sticking stop signs or traffic lights in between a tollway to freeway connection kind of stinks. There's not enough room to build a cloverleaf interchange. A modified trumpet interchange or modified T interchange that preserves the exit for E 850 Rd would probably fit just fine.
I finally thought of a re-design idea for this interchange that I actually like: https://www.aaroads.com/forum/index.php?topic=8790.msg2188414#msg2188414 . Something like a double-trumpet might actually fit. The problem is double-trumpets aren't exactly in style anymore.
Well, this happened.
http://www2.ljworld.com/news/2016/nov/22/three-car-crash-injures-multiple-people-k-10-troop/
As I'm understanding this, the accident was caused by a driver attempting to turn left against the (recently completed) right-in, right-out restrictions at the Kasold.
Quote from: route56 on November 23, 2016, 12:21:08 PM
Well, this happened.
http://www2.ljworld.com/news/2016/nov/22/three-car-crash-injures-multiple-people-k-10-troop/
As I'm understanding this, the accident was caused by a driver attempting to turn left against the (recently completed) right-in, right-out restrictions at the Kasold.
Are there any actual barriers at this interchange? Or is it just some signage and restriped lanes?
Quote from: mvak36 on November 23, 2016, 03:21:57 PM
Are there any actual barriers at this interchange? Or is it just some signage and restriped lanes?
Just signage and channelizers. No hard barriers.
Damn. I overlooked that at-grade intersection when I wrote my earlier response. That accident could put a little more pressure on getting the West leg of the SLT upgraded.
I made it a point this morning to come back from Kansas City via Lawrence and Topeka so I could check out K-10 and the SLT.
I'm guessing it's because it's where the SLT splits away from the existing K-10 freeway, but the 23rd Street interchange seems hilariously overbuilt and out of place. I'd imagine in twenty years when the SLT isn't "new" anymore people will wonder why there's such a big interchange there.
Agreed that the west leg could definitely use a freeway upgrade. Good thing most of the ROW is secure and the bridges built to easily accommodate a full 4-lane freeway.
Quote from: Scott5114 on November 25, 2016, 10:01:43 PM
I'm guessing it's because it's where the SLT splits away from the existing K-10 freeway, but the 23rd Street interchange seems hilariously overbuilt and out of place. I'd imagine in twenty years when the SLT isn't "new" anymore people will wonder why there's such a big interchange there.
I was thinking the same thing. I thought it woulda made sense to continue access on thru on old K-10, and have E 1750 in place as a connecting road. Build a nice little parclo, with ramps terminating at the N 1300 & N1360 junctions...
It looks like KDOT might not make any changes to the Kasold curve: http://www2.ljworld.com/news/2016/nov/27/kdot-says-additional-improvements-kasold-and-slt-i/
EDIT: There will be changes. http://www2.ljworld.com/news/2016/dec/03/kdot-announces-more-signs-poles-stripping-problem-/
It only took about 6 weeks before the topic of people using K-10 to shunpike I-70 came along:
http://www2.ljworld.com/news/2016/dec/21/slt-threatens-cut-turnpike-revenue/
Quote from: route56 on December 22, 2016, 01:38:34 PM
It only took about 6 weeks before the topic of people using K-10 to shunpike I-70 came along:
http://www2.ljworld.com/news/2016/dec/21/slt-threatens-cut-turnpike-revenue/
I used this to avoid the Turnpike earlier this month. A big plus was that I didn't have to drive through downtown KC to do it either. US 40 wasn't great though (between Lawrence and Topeka) and I think most people will continue to use I-70, but I'm sure there will be plenty of others like me that will use this as a shunpike route.
Direct route via Turnpike = 64.5 miles.
Shunpike route via K-10 and US 24 = 80 miles.
Shunpike route via K-10 and US 40 = 73.6 miles.
US 40 between Topeka and Lawrence winds up hill and down dale so much that I would trade seven additional miles for smoother running. Before the Kansas Speedway was built, the easiest shunpike route of all was US 24 outside the I-435 loop (72.8 miles).
Quote from: route56 on December 22, 2016, 01:38:34 PM
It only took about 6 weeks before the topic of people using K-10 to shunpike I-70 came along:
http://www2.ljworld.com/news/2016/dec/21/slt-threatens-cut-turnpike-revenue/
I don't think the issue with the South Lawrence Trafficway drawing traffic from the Kansas Turnpike has so much to do with it providing a new shunpike route as it has to do with providing a more convenient route for two very significant purposes. (1) It now provides
the most direct route between Kansas's state capital and the center of its most populous county (Johnson) as well as the state's second most populous city (Overland Park). I believe the article mentioned this. Previously, the main choices were either to go all the way north on I-70 as it turns north east of Lawrence and then come back south on I-435 or to suffer through Lawrence traffic in order to get between I-70 and K-10. (2) The South Lawrence Trafficway was the missing link in Kansas City's first useful east-west bypass (which consists of thee routes: K-10, I-435, and I-470). I-435 was always a useful bypass for northeast-southwest traffic (I-35 traffic), but it was never a good bypass for long-distance I-70 traffic, because, as with the first point, one would have to go all the way north into Leavenworth and Wyandotte Counties as I-70 turns north, only to go back south along I-435. With K-10, you skip Leavenworth and Wyandotte Counties entirely.
Anyone who can read a map could have predicted that the South Lawrence Trafficway would draw traffic from the Kansas Turnpike. I think it's also a safe prediction that the two-lane portion will become very congested until it is upgraded to a full freeway. I imagine it will often be hard to come close to the 65-MPH speed limit during daytime hours. The traffic might end up looking like the traffic on the last remaining portion of US 40 in St. Charles County, MO to be upgraded to I-64, before that was completed.
Quote from: stridentweasel on December 23, 2016, 11:08:32 PMThe South Lawrence Trafficway was the missing link in Kansas City's first useful east-west bypass (which consists of three routes: K-10, I-435, and I-470). I-435 was always a useful bypass for northeast-southwest traffic (I-35 traffic), but it was never a good bypass for long-distance I-70 traffic, because, as with the first point, one would have to go all the way north into Leavenworth and Wyandotte Counties as I-70 turns north, only to go back south along I-435. With K-10, you skip Leavenworth and Wyandotte Counties entirely.
I-435 also has better access to regional retail destinations (for starters, Leawood has the only Dean & Deluca between DC and northern California, and the only REI between St. Louis and Denver). However, I'm a bit skeptical about long-distance traffic actually using the K-10/I-435/I-70 itinerary as a southern KC bypass, except possibly to save a modest amount in Turnpike tolls, because there is a length disadvantage (66.2 miles versus 57.7 miles), a time disadvantage (52 minutes versus 1 hour), and more congestion along the Lenexa-Overland Park-Leawood corridor (it and parts of I-35 inside the I-435 loop are the only parts of the Kansas freeway network that have ramp metering).
I frankly do not consider Kansas City to have an effective bypass in any direction, and I have looked for one in the southwest/northeast axis because it is my gateway to places like Minneapolis/St. Paul, Chicago, Milwaukee, Detroit, and so on. For example, I just mapped avoiding-KC itineraries for Emporia, Kansas to Chillicothe, Missouri (part of a logical Wichita-to-Chicago itinerary) and the route through KC is three miles and 16 minutes shorter than the route through Atchison and St. Joseph (following I-335, K-4, US 59, and US 36) that avoids transiting a major metropolitan area without going too far afield.
Quote from: J N Winkler on December 23, 2016, 11:39:00 PM
I-435 also has better access to regional retail destinations (for starters, Leawood has the only Dean & Deluca between DC and northern California, and the only REI between St. Louis and Denver). However, I'm a bit skeptical about long-distance traffic actually using the K-10/I-435/I-70 itinerary as a southern KC bypass, except possibly to save a modest amount in Turnpike tolls, because there is a length disadvantage (66.2 miles versus 57.7 miles), a time disadvantage (52 minutes versus 1 hour), and more congestion along the Lenexa-Overland Park-Leawood corridor (it and parts of I-35 inside the I-435 loop are the only parts of the Kansas freeway network that have ramp metering).
I frankly do not consider Kansas City to have an effective bypass in any direction, and I have looked for one in the southwest/northeast axis because it is my gateway to places like Minneapolis/St. Paul, Chicago, Milwaukee, Detroit, and so on. For example, I just mapped avoiding-KC itineraries for Emporia, Kansas to Chillicothe, Missouri (part of a logical Wichita-to-Chicago itinerary) and the route through KC is three miles and 16 minutes shorter than the route through Atchison and St. Joseph (following I-335, K-4, US 59, and US 36) that avoids transiting a major metropolitan area without going too far afield.
My assumption was that many people would rather avoid Kansas City's Downtown Loop, with its tight curves, 45-MPH speed limit, and Interstate routes being squeezed down to one lane in a direction in some places. But yes, the east-west, eight-lane portion of I-435 can be quite slow at times, especially as you see rush-hour traffic commuting between Overland Park and Lee's Summit. Conversely, it's often possible to get through the Downtown Loop with little if any delay.
Quote from: J N Winkler on December 23, 2016, 11:39:00 PM
Quote from: stridentweasel on December 23, 2016, 11:08:32 PMThe South Lawrence Trafficway was the missing link in Kansas City's first useful east-west bypass (which consists of three routes: K-10, I-435, and I-470). I-435 was always a useful bypass for northeast-southwest traffic (I-35 traffic), but it was never a good bypass for long-distance I-70 traffic, because, as with the first point, one would have to go all the way north into Leavenworth and Wyandotte Counties as I-70 turns north, only to go back south along I-435. With K-10, you skip Leavenworth and Wyandotte Counties entirely.
Having the same desire, I often wondered about the St Joseph "bypass". We've been taking 70 to 435 north to 152. The bad part of that is the Liberty mess; however, that is always a good rest stop point.
I-435 also has better access to regional retail destinations (for starters, Leawood has the only Dean & Deluca between DC and northern California, and the only REI between St. Louis and Denver). However, I'm a bit skeptical about long-distance traffic actually using the K-10/I-435/I-70 itinerary as a southern KC bypass, except possibly to save a modest amount in Turnpike tolls, because there is a length disadvantage (66.2 miles versus 57.7 miles), a time disadvantage (52 minutes versus 1 hour), and more congestion along the Lenexa-Overland Park-Leawood corridor (it and parts of I-35 inside the I-435 loop are the only parts of the Kansas freeway network that have ramp metering).
I frankly do not consider Kansas City to have an effective bypass in any direction, and I have looked for one in the southwest/northeast axis because it is my gateway to places like Minneapolis/St. Paul, Chicago, Milwaukee, Detroit, and so on. For example, I just mapped avoiding-KC itineraries for Emporia, Kansas to Chillicothe, Missouri (part of a logical Wichita-to-Chicago itinerary) and the route through KC is three miles and 16 minutes shorter than the route through Atchison and St. Joseph (following I-335, K-4, US 59, and US 36) that avoids transiting a major metropolitan area without going too far afield.