Exciting News for Kansas City Drivers: Buck O’Neil Bridge Now Open!

Exciting News for Kansas City Drivers: Buck O’Neil Bridge Now Open!

Hey there, Kansas City! If you’ve been navigating these streets for the past few years, we have some fabulous news that could make your daily commute a whole lot easier. The southbound lanes of U.S. 169 on the newly constructed Buck O’Neil Bridge and the flyover ramp to Interstate 35 are officially open, as announced by the Missouri Department of Transportation.

A Long-Awaited Milestone

Can you believe it? After four years of construction and a whopping $220 million investment, the new bridge is one of the last big pieces of this extensive project that has been on everyone’s radar. Excitement was palpable when project director James Pflum stated, “It is exciting to know after four years, we are able to open the project as promised by Dec. 1, 2024.” If you ask us, it feels like a small victory for the city!

Celebrating the New Bridge

Speaking of the Buck O’Neil Bridge, it’s not just any bridge; it’s a brand-new pair of structures replacing the old iconic triple-arch steel-truss bridge that opened way back in 1956 as a toll bridge. Can you picture that? Back then, it cost just 25 cents to cross! Who would have thought that the journey would lead to a modern marvel costing $12 million to build that ultimately raked in nearly $40 million in toll revenue?

In 1991, the tolls ended, and eventually, the city handed over the bridge to MoDOT. To honor local legend Buck O’Neil, the bridge was renamed in 2016, showcasing one of Kansas City’s cherished sports figures. Truly, there’s a piece of our history wrapped up in this bridge!

Benefits for Everyone

The new bridge emerges as more than just a way to get from point A to point B. It serves as a vital connection between downtown Kansas City and the Northland, with nearly 50,000 vehicles using the old bridge every single day before its closure. That’s a lot of traffic! But, the modern design isn’t just for cars—there’s also a brand-new bike/pedestrian lane. So commuters can hop on their bikes or take a stroll and enjoy the scenery!

What’s Next?

As if that wasn’t enough good news, MoDOT has mentioned that the flyover ramp from northbound I-35 to U.S. 169 and the shared-use path will be opening in just a few weeks. So, keep your eyes peeled! Not only does this bridge provide direct connections to essential roadways, but it also promises to improve access to the Downtown Airport—meaning less hassle and more convenience for everyone.

A Scenic Touch

And wait, there’s more! The project will also feature a scenic overlook complete with benches and murals, perfect for those weekend outings or quiet moments after work. Whether you’re catching a view of the city skyline or just relaxing after a busy day, it sounds like a delightful spot for everyone.

Final Thoughts

With all these changes paving the way, Kansas City is truly in for a treat. The Buck O’Neil Bridge not only symbolizes our past but also lights the way for our future travel plans! As options open up, and traffic begins to flow smoothly, we can all look forward to easier commutes and taking in those stunning river views. Cheers to progress and making Kansas City an even better place to live!