Kansas City Scout

Posted by Nancy Powell
Traffic Management Center Supervisor

November 24, 2010 - Thanksgiving is here and "Over The River" we go. . .

The holiday season crept upon KC disguised as mild autumn days with temps in the 60's. But we knew it wouldn't last. Frost made its debut this week on windshields and tonight’s chill is a reminder that winter is fast approaching. As you make preparations for holiday travel, be mindful of the changes that are also occurring on the roadways and bridges in our busy metropolis. The new Christopher S. Bond Bridge is now carrying traffic across the Missouri River just north of downtown Kansas City but lane restrictions remain in place, so delays can be expected. Bridge work also continues on I-435 at 23rd Street and I-470 NB at I-70 east of downtown.

In Kansas, work continues on the Overland Parkway improvements along US69 between 87th and 103rd streets. Ramps at 103rd and 95th Street will reopen November 30th. KDOT completed improvements along the I-435 corridor from Overland Park to Lenexa on Tuesday eliminating overnight and weekend lane restrictions, just in time for the annual Border Showdown at Arrowhead on Saturday. As you travel this weekend, be aware of the work zones and those dedicated employees whose efforts on these major roadways are for your benefit and safety. They depend on you for their safety.

Both MoDOT and KDOT have made improvements to their website maps in order to make it even easier to preplan your travel based on construction and winter road conditions. Visit KDOT at http://511.ksdot.org/KanRoadPublic_VE/Default.aspx and MoDOT at http://maps.modot.mo.gov/TIM/.

The first storm of the season has yet to make its entrance. Before it arrives, have your vehicles checked, replace worn tires and windshield wipers, restock car emergency supplies such as flashlights and blankets and make safety your first concern. Be aware of road conditions during inclement weather. Turn off cruise control during rain/sleet/ice conditions. Use headlights and wipers when it rains.

Safety is everyone's responsibility. Ask a friend to be a designated driver or offer to be one yourself. Don't text and drive; no message is worth taking your focus off the road. It only takes a second to take a life. Recognize that many motorists in our city during the next few weeks will be visitors and not familiar with all the construction activity along our major roadways. They will appreciate your courteous driving.

Enjoy a safe and Happy Thanksgiving!