The public is invited to attend an online public meeting to learn about the design and timeline for the U.S. 24 Topeka Boulevard to Muddy Creek Improvement Project in Topeka. The meeting will be held via Zoom Webinar on Thursday, April 15 from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. and will include a 30-minute presentation with 60 minutes for questions and answers from attendees.

Those interested in attending can register to receive the Zoom log-in information details by using the following link: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_S-y7gXE8Q8KCnohBwRsFHQ

Attendees will be able to join via phone at the time of the meeting, for audio only, by dialing (312) 626-6799 and Webinar ID: 854 9340 6127.

Background - The Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) in partnership with the City of Topeka is planning the pavement replacement project with added safety, access and anticipated economic development benefits. The existing crash records and traffic safety study completed in December 2018 found that the overall crash rate along the Shawnee County portion of U.S. 24 was 6% higher than statewide comparisons. The fatal crash rate in this specific area was 150% higher. About three-fourths of crashes were vehicle-to-vehicle crashes and about half of those were side impact (or T-bone) crashes.

Planned Safety Improvements – Access management improvements are expected to reduce the number of conflict points along U.S. 24 by approximately 70%, which should result in reduced crash frequency and severity.

Streamlined Access – A series of median treatments have been designed to continue to allow access to the businesses along U.S. 24 while maintaining traffic flow.

Economic Development Opportunities – In addition to important safety benefits, planned frontage road improvements could encourage additional investments into this corridor. Currently there are several parcels that could be developed for commercial, industrial, or residential uses.

For additional road condition details, check KDOT’s updated traveler information website, www.Kandrive.org. KDOT urges all motorists to be alert and obey the warning signs when approaching and driving through a work zone. Drive safely and always wear your seat belt.

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This information can be made available in alternative accessible formats upon request. For information about obtaining an alternative format, contact KDOT Division of Communications, 700 SW Harrison St., 2nd Fl West, Topeka, KS 66603-3754 or phone 785-296-3585 (Voice)/Hearing Impaired – 711.