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K‑5 modernization study stresses safety, connectivity and long‑term modernization
Summary
KDOT‑funded study teams told the commission K‑5 (I‑435 to K‑7) currently operates at acceptable service levels but has substandard curves, superelevation errors and crash rates several times expected; the draft purpose prioritizes safety, connectivity and modernization and public outreach is planned in early next year.
KDOT and consultant teams briefed the Leavenworth City Commission on the K‑5 modernization study, focusing on roadway safety, physical constraints and a 25‑year traffic outlook. Jeff McCarroll of Kimley‑Horn said existing traffic mostly operates at level‑of‑service A or B today, but the corridor has engineering constraints — narrow lanes (10–11 feet), missing shoulders, steep or incorrectly banked curves and adjacent federal/state properties and cemeteries that limit right‑of‑way expansion.
McCarroll presented crash‑rate analysis showing K‑5’s fatal and serious‑injury rate is substantially higher than typical for similar facilities; in the presentation he cited a figure of "25 on fatal and serious injury rates per million vehicle miles traveled," which consultants used to justify prioritizing safety improvements. The team identified three draft goals for the project: improve safety (reduce severe crashes at substandard curves and intersections), strengthen regional connectivity and modernize the corridor for future growth.
Jacob Diner (PMC) said the project is in a discovery/study phase with funding set for preliminary engineering; the team will meet with area governments and the port authority, hold an open house after the new year, and present a preferred alternative in early 2026. Commissioners discussed tradeoffs between a safety‑focused approach (especially north of McIntyre where the road is more hazardous) and a broader corridor expansion that could support economic development south of McIntyre; staff cautioned that expanding the scope raises funding questions (consultants and attendees referenced a $39,000,000 figure as insufficient for full corridor expansion).
What’s next: The consultant team will continue local briefings, refine alternatives and host public outreach in January–March; commissioners were asked to consider local priorities so staff can advise KDOT and the port authority.
Provenance: Presentation began with Jacob Diner and Jeff McCarroll and concluded with commissioners’ comments and questions.
