One thing I love about the Chamber is that we tackle big issues with the potential to significantly im-pact the lives of our residents and our economy.

Some of these issues are long-term and subjective, without a clear end in sight, making moments of success feel fleeting. However, sometimes we achieve big wins that are definitive, and we should take the opportunity to recognize how much they will benefit our region.

The Chamber and City of Overland Park recognized U.S. 69’s capacity more than 20 years ago as vital for traveler safety and our economy. Many of you told us this corridor was essential because your employees relied on it for safe commutes and because it was necessary for your business operations, including the daily handling of products and services. The corridor was identified as Kansas’s most congested four-lane highway, with traffic loads increasing and accident rates above acceptable levels.

Increasing the capacity and safety of U.S.69 has been our top legislative goal for nearly 20 years. As is often the case, funding was limited, so innovative solutions and partnerships became essential to addressing this challenge.

Fast-forward to today, when we’re nearing the completion of what is now called 69Express. The partnership between the Kansas Department of Transportation, the Kansas Turnpike Authority, and the City of Overland Park is delivering the state’s first express toll lane project. This solution offers four permanently free lanes, two in each direction, plus two new express lanes, one in each direction. Drivers seeking a congestion-free trip can choose these express lanes. The tolls help fund the local match for the highway’s construction (save 50% with a K-tag; get one at www.DriveKS.com).

Aside from the new lanes, the entire stretch of U.S. 69 has been reconstructed between 103rd and 151st because, after 50 years, this pavement was at the end of its useful life. Since starting construction in March 2023, the project team has added the new lanes, replaced the pavement, built 26 new bridges, improved six interchanges and installed noise walls. A bonus project involved a new 167th Street inter-change to enhance improvements made in the area by the City of Overland Park, thanks to federal funding secured with the help of Rep. Sharice Davids. Express lane testing is happening now, preparing to go live in early 2026.

I’ve had the chance to work on several highway projects throughout my career, and this one stands out as both innovative and efficient. I’ve heard many of you comment on how much the construction landscape changes from week to week. No one enjoys driving through construction, but this project has progressed smoothly, with excellent communication from the team. Thanks to KDOT, KTA, HNTB, 69Express contractors and the City of Overland Park for this unique, collaborative partnership and for delivering a solution that will benefit our region for many decades to come.