Heads up, drivers in Barton County: significant roadworks are on the horizon that will shutter several key routes as crews dive into pipe replacement duties. MoDOT has announced that from January 10-17, daily between the hours of 7:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m., Monday to Friday, there will be full lane closures along three county routes for critical infrastructure work.
Specific routes affected include Route P, between the Missouri/Kansas state line, and Northwest 160th Lane west of Liberal. Then there's Route J, that's stretching between U.S. Route 160 and Southwest 20th Road west of Lamar, and, finally Route C, which lies between Route F and the Barton/Cedar county line southwest of Jerico Springs. While the work is in progress, residents will still retain access to driveways and other entranceways, but won't be able to pass directly through the work zones.
Evening travelers can breathe a sigh of relief, though; all lanes on the impacted routes will reopen during nighttime hours and weekends. However, those venturing out during work hours should start planning alternate pathways, since no signed detours are in place. As always, it’s recommended to check MoDOT’s Traveler Information Map for the latest updates on road closings and other traffic impacts.
MoDOT's advisory makes it clear: "Drivers will be able to access driveways and entrances on either side of the work zone, but will not be able to travel through the work zone." For those nearby, signs and message boards will serve as a heads-up as you approach the affected areas.
