When multiple interchanges on the Kansas Turnpike needed safety improvements for drivers, MKEC stepped in to eliminate the taper-style ramps with insufficient length and provide more protection at the overhead bridge structures.
The Kansas Turnpike Authority (KTA) contracted us to design and prepare plans for interchange improvements at the I-35 junction with US-77 at mile post 76 (El Dorado) and the I-35 junction with K-177 at mile post 92 (Cassoday). The existing interchanges featured short taper-style ramps which restricted motorists’ ability to merge into mainline traffic and to exit off the turnpike without slowing down ahead of the interchange ramp. We determined parallel-style ramps with the proper length would help drivers to enter and exit the turnpike more safely. To save on cost, the design allowed for these improvements to be made without completely reconstructing the interchanges. To further increase safety, we also designed concrete pier protection measures at several bridges passing over the turnpike and new state-of-the-art approach guardrails. New pavement along with marking, signing drainage, and erosion protection improvements maximized the upgrades for this system. These significant improvements will keep drivers on the Kansas Turnpike safe for many years to come.
“To save on cost, our design allowed for these improvements to be made without completely reconstructing the interchanges.”
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