KC--Chouteau Trafficway to be turned into parkway

The Chouteau Trafficway bridge is one of two bicycle-able crossings of the Missouri River in the Kansas City area. South of the river Chouteau Trafficway is a four-lane roadway with much heavy industrial traffic, that is very difficult for bicyclists. North of the river it is a busy two-lane road with heavy, fast-moving traffic.

The Kansas City Star reports that MoDOT and other area officials are planning to widen Chouteau Trafficway north of the river, turning into a four-lane parkway with trees and green areas. This week, Rep. Sam Graves announced that $1 million in funding had been appropriated in a recently passed federal spending bill. The complete project will cost about $11 million.

Chouteau Trafficway has the potential to be the most bicycle-friendly route across the Missouri River in the Kansas City area. Bicyclists need to watch this project and insure that this vital link is designed in a bicycle-friendly way.