Construction Updates

The Following Projects Are Underway

In an effort to continually improve the turnpike, we are working on the following areas:

DMS installation

Digital messaging signs will be installed from Wichita to the Oklahoma border beginning in the spring of 2012. Watch for crews and temporary lane closures along this route during this process.

Drainage work, MP 41

The City of Wichita will begin work on enlarging a drainage box at MP 41 in early March. This work will reduce traffic to one lane in each direction for the entire duration of the project.

Asphalt overlay, MP 112-147

An overlay project is scheduled to begin on May 1 with a final completion date of late September. Drivers should expect one-lane travel on this section of I-35 in the Flint HIlls.

Plaza 71 remodel, MP 71

Crews will begin work in June to remodel the toll plaza at Exit 71. Work will include new booths and canopy and curbing. Please watch for construction crews at this location.

KTA Fact

SPEED LIMIT CHANGES
1956 - 1957
Reasonable and Prudent

1957 - 1970
80 mph Maximum
40 mph Minimum

1970 - 1974
75 mph Maximum - Day
70 mph Maximum - Night
40 mph Minimum

1974 - 1987
55 mph Maximum

May 1987
65 mph on rural interstates
55 mph through town of 50,000 or more and from Emporia to Topeka

October 1987
Emporia to Topeka re-classified as I-335 and now 65 mph

1993
65 mph around Wichita & Topeka

1996
70 mph from Oklahoma line to I-70/435. 65 mph from I-70 to 18th St.

1997
Entire Turnpike changed to 70 mph

2011
Turnpike from K-7 near Bonner Springs south to Oklahoma border changed to 75 mph