Drivers in or heading to Wichita should plan ahead this weekend as major closures are scheduled for both directions of Interstate 135 due to construction work, according to the Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT).
Beginning at 5 a.m. Saturday, May 10, southbound I-135 will be closed from the K-254 interchange to just beyond the K-96 interchange. In addition to the mainline closure, the I-235 ramps to southbound I-135, including the newly built I-235 connector ramp to K-96, as well as the ramp from westbound K-96 to southbound I-135, will be closed.
Southbound lanes are expected to reopen by midday Sunday, May 11.
Northbound I-135 will also see closures starting the same day. The interstate will be closed at the K-96/I-135 interchange, with traffic diverted to eastbound K-96, where motorists will be directed to exit at Hillside Street, then return via westbound K-96 to re-enter northbound I-135. The northbound lanes are scheduled to reopen by Sunday afternoon.
KDOT is urging drivers to allow extra travel time, follow all posted detour signs, and use alternate routes where possible. Motorists are also reminded to exercise caution while traveling through the construction zone.