I-70 closure in downtown Topeka to begin next month for PQV project

The Kansas Department of Transportation has scheduled the full closure of I-70 in downtown Topeka to begin in June as part of the Polk-Quincy Viaduct (PQV) project. Additional short-term closures on local roadways are also planned.

Starting Monday, June 8, all lanes of I-70 between Topeka Boulevard and 8^th Avenue are scheduled to close until December. During the closure, project work will focus on removing the existing viaduct and completing the new structures. Construction will also continue on the new I-70 lanes and local street network.

The closure's designated detour will direct I-70 through traffic to I-470. Access to and from the downtown area can be made via the I-70 ramps at MacVicar Avenue, Topeka Boulevard, 8^th Avenue and 10^th Avenue. Kansas Avenue and Topeka Boulevard will also be open.

Motorists are encouraged to review the I-470 detour and other alternative routes prior to this closure.

Removal of the existing viaduct will start on Tuesday, June 9. Temporary closures will occur on portions of Kansas Avenue, Topeka Boulevard and I-70. Motorists should plan for the following:

• Tuesday, June 9, and Wednesday, June 10, from 7 p.m. to 5 a.m.: Kansas Avenue will be closed between 1^st and 3^rd streets. A detour will be marked on 3^rd Street, Topeka Boulevard and N.W. Morse Street.
• Friday, June 12, from 11 p.m. until Monday, June 15, at 4 a.m.: Topeka Boulevard will be closed between 1^st and 3^rd streets. Through traffic can follow the detour on 3^rd Street, Kansas Avenue and N.W. Morse Street. During this closure:
  • Southbound Topeka Boulevard will have access to the westbound I-70 on-ramp. Northbound Topeka Boulevard will be directed to 6^th Street and MacVicar Avenue to access westbound I-70.
  • Eastbound I-70 will also be closed starting at MacVicar Avenue. Eastbound motorists can follow the local detour: MacVicar Avenue to 6^th Avenue to Topeka Boulevard to the 10^th Avenue I-70 on-ramp.

Additional reductions, closures and other traffic impacts will be necessary as the project progresses.

All project work and traffic changes are conditions permitting and subject to change.

More information about the PQV project can be found at ksdot.gov/I-70-Polk-Quincy.

KDOT urges motorists to stay alert and follow posted signs in all work zones. For current road conditions, visit KanDrive.gov or call 511. For updates on highway projects in northeast Kansas, visit ksdot.gov/NortheastNews.

###