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KANSAS CITY, KS - Governor Laura Kelly and Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) Secretary Calvin Reed welcomed Administrator Shailen Bhatt from the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) to Kansas City, Kansas, today in recognition of the 18th Street Bridge Project.
“Investments like the 18th Street Bridge Project strengthen opportunities for economic growth and innovation across Kansas,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “This grant emphasizes how my administration strategically collaborates with our federal partners to extend resources for local projects.”
In July, the U.S. DOT announced a $62.6 million grant award to KDOT for the 18th Street Bridge Replacement Project in Kansas City. The federal grant is part of the FHWA Bridge Investment Program, which provides funding for existing bridges to reduce the overall number of bridges in poor condition or in fair condition at risk of falling into poor condition.
“KDOT appreciates the opportunity to recognize this local, state, and federal partnership and having Administrator Bhatt visit Kansas,” KDOT Secretary Calvin Reed said. “This grant award has a far-reaching impact on local communities and our state highway system – like those that use this library and attend the schools around the corner.”
The 18th Street bridge in Wyandotte County is part of U.S. 69, which runs from Texas to Minnesota and is an integral connection for interstate commerce.
“Under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law’s Bridge Investment Program, we are investing in our nation’s bridge infrastructure to ensure vital connections for Americans who need to get to a job, a doctor, or other important destinations,” said Federal Highway Administrator Shailen Bhatt. “In Kansas, the 18th Street bridge is critical for the local community as well as freight and interstate travel throughout the entire Kansas City region, and we are pleased to partner with KDOT on this important project.”
Adjacent to the 18th Street bridge over the Kansas River are some of the oldest neighborhoods in Kansas City, Kan., including the Argentine and Armourdale neighborhoods.
“The 18th Street bridge is vital to connecting people and businesses throughout the greater Kansas City metropolitan area,” Mayor Tyrone Garner said. “On behalf of the great people of Wyandotte County, I would like to extend thanks to Governor Kelly, Lieutenant Governor Toland, and Transportation Secretary Reed for their continued support and commitment to improving infrastructure in Kansas City, Kansas. We look forward to the continued positive collaboration to improve the quality of life for all those who love and call Wyandotte County home.”
In the late 1800s, land under and around the current 18th Street bridge developed quickly as an industrial center, including major railroad operations and nearby housing for employees. One of the largest rail yards in the country, established in 1875, is located under the current bridge span, and numerous production facilities operate in the area.
Built in 1959, the bridge is scheduled to be replaced in 2025. Construction will require full bridge closure and is expected to be completed in 2027.
More information on the 18th Street Bridge Replacement Project can be found here: https://18thstreetbridgekck.ksdot.gov/.
For additional details on the Bridge Investment Program, visit https://www.fhwa.dot.gov/bridge/bip/.