$8 million Topeka Boulevard road work project starts soon, what to know

TOPEKA (KSNT) - Topeka residents may need to rethink their daily drives as workers get ready to start a major construction project in the heart of the city.

The City of Topeka reports that Topeka Boulevard is set to receive some major improvements this summer to make driving smoother for local residents. The project area will run from Southwest 15th Street to Southwest 21st Street and is currently set to start on Sept. 2 this year. City officials say this is part of a larger effort to improve Topeka Boulevard that will last into 2028.

"This project will bring major improvements to one of Topeka’s most heavily traveled corridors," said Topeka Public Works Director Steve Groen. "Drivers can look forward to a smoother, safer commute thanks to the full reconstruction of Topeka Blvd. between 15th and 21st Streets—an area that has long been known for persistent potholes and rough pavement."

Groen said work crews, courtesy of Sunflower Paving, will replace the existing storm sewers and water mains. He said this will help prevent damage to the boulevard in the future and reduce the need for frequent repair work. Workers will also replace sidewalks and install ADA-accessible ramps along the entire length of the construction area.

"This is part of the City’s multi-year plan to rebuild Topeka Blvd. from 15th to 49th Street, addressing infrastructure needs and improving travel conditions for thousands of daily drivers," Groen said. "Once completed, drivers will experience fewer potholes, better drainage, and more reliable infrastructure—making for a much more enjoyable drive."

Amanda Knowland with the City of Topeka told 27 News that workers will be focusing on this section of the boulevard through to December 2026. She said the project, which consists of four phases, will result in traffic being brought down to a single lane in each direction along with some other limitations in place.

"Topeka Blvd. will not experience a full closure during this project," Knowland said. "One lane of traffic will be maintained for both north- and southbound traffic at all times. Additionally, access will remain open for all businesses along this stretch of the Boulevard."

Knowland said 17th Street will be closed east and west during one of the project's phases. Drivers will still be able to move through this part of the boulevard north and south throughout the project.

The City of Topeka reports the project's total price tag sits at just below $8 million. It is being funded through the countywide half-cent sales tax, water revenue bonds and operating funds.

You can learn more about this project by heading to the City of Topeka's website or by looking at the document below which was used in a public meeting on June 30. Knowland said the timeframe for this project may change and that some of the dates listed in the document will not reflect the current construction plan.

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