KDOT US-69 Cherokee County

Project OverviewDescripción del proyecto

The Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) awarded Emery Sapp & Sons (ESS) the contract for resurfacing the US-69/US-400 corridor in Cherokee County, Kansas. This extensive project stretched 18.5 miles from the US-400/K-171 intersection in Pittsburg to the K-66 roundabout in Riverton. The scope included milling more than 500,000 square yards of existing pavement and overlaying it with 40,000 tons of SuperPave asphalt mix. Additionally, the project required the placement of more than 2,000 tons of aggregate edge treatment.

One of the primary challenges was maintaining traffic flow on this heavily traveled route. The ESS team implemented phased construction plans, real-time traffic management strategies, and advanced asphalt mixing technologies to minimize disruptions and enhance the roadway's durability. A significant equipment breakdown mid-project tested the team’s adaptability. By leveraging ESS’ newly established asphalt plant in Pittsburg and developing alternative mix designs, the team ensured seamless progress, keeping the project on track.

Safety remained a top priority throughout the project. Strict protocols included well-marked detours, highly visible signage, regular safety briefings, and on-site safety officers. Unique traffic control strategies addressed the challenges of managing a functional roundabout within the work zone, requiring detailed planning, collaboration with KDOT, and proactive communication with the traveling public.

Despite weather constraints and a demanding schedule, the ESS team delivered the project on time. Strategic coordination with KDOT and meticulous execution ensured that the resurfaced roadway was completed before peak travel periods, providing a high-quality, long-lasting solution for the region.