News Summary
Westbound traffic on MO 350 will be closed near Blue Ridge Boulevard from March 4 to March 24 for essential heat straightening and bridge repair work. Motorists are advised to use I-470 to I-435 as a detour. Eastbound traffic will remain open, and the right lane of southbound Blue Ridge Boulevard will also be closed. These repairs are dependent on weather conditions, and drivers should monitor updates for any schedule changes.
Kansas City
Beginning on Tuesday, March 4, 2025, westbound traffic on MO 350 will be closed near Blue Ridge Boulevard until March 24, 2025. This closure is necessary for heat straightening and bridge repair work being conducted beneath the Blue Ridge Bridge.
Motorists are encouraged to utilize a recommended detour via I-470 to I-435 to navigate around the closed section of the highway. While westbound traffic will not be able to pass through, eastbound MO 350 will remain open throughout this repair period. Additionally, the right lane of southbound Blue Ridge Boulevard will also be closed for the duration of the work.
These repairs are weather permitting, and drivers should anticipate potential changes to the schedule depending on environmental conditions.
Significant Historical Context
The Blue Ridge Bridge is an important historical structure that has been serving the Kansas City community since its completion in 1907 at a cost of $15,000. It is an 80-foot tall, single arch, limestone structure that spans over 15th Street on the eastern edge of the city. The bridge’s positioning at one of the highest points in Jackson County provides drivers with sweeping views to both the east and west on Blue Ridge Boulevard, making it a visually striking landmark in the area.
The bridge underwent a significant renovation and was officially rededicated in 2014 after six months of extensive restoration work. This renovation aimed to preserve the bridge’s structural integrity while maintaining its historical significance.
Nearby Notable Sites
In close proximity to the Blue Ridge Bridge, there are several notable sites, including Lincoln Cemetery, where Julie Parker’s grave is located just three blocks away. Furthermore, Elmwood Cemetery, which serves as the final resting place for many prominent Kansas Citians, can be found on Truman Road. These sites contribute to the historical and cultural fabric of the Kansas City area.
Impact on Local Traffic and Residents
Residents and commuters should plan accordingly to avoid delays during this extended closure. Local authorities are expected to monitor traffic patterns and provide updates to help mitigate disruptions caused by the repair work. Community members are advised to stay alert for posted signs indicating detour routes and any changes to the traffic situation during the construction timeframe.
In summary, the westbound lanes of MO 350 at Blue Ridge Boulevard will be closed for the necessary repairs to the Blue Ridge Bridge from March 4 to March 24, 2025. Detour routes are established, and ongoing communication will ensure that motorists stay informed about traffic conditions.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Kansas City Traffic Alerts: Major Bridge Repairs Announced
Kansas City Faces Traffic Disruptions from Broken Vehicles
Winter Storm Blair Causes Widespread Disruptions Across U.S.
Additional Resources
- FOX 4 KC News
- Wikipedia: Blue Ridge Bridge
- Kansas City Star
- Google Search: Kansas City traffic
- KMBC News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Kansas City, Missouri
- KSHB News
- Google News: Kansas City car accidents
- KCTV5 News
