Sunflower State News

The Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) is collaborating with the city of Basehor to implement a speed reduction on U.S. Highway 24/40. The initiative aims to change driver behavior and enhance safety by reducing speeds in the corridor.

Mayor Richard "Dick" Drennon expressed his gratitude for the cooperation that led to this decision, stating, "As the Mayor of Basehor, I can think of no greater honor than to advocate for improved safety in our community." He thanked Secretary Calvin Reed, Senator Jeff Klemp, Representative Tim Johnson, and KDOT for their teamwork.

The new speed limit will decrease from 65 mph to 55 mph. Westbound on Highway 24/40, the reduced speed zone starts just west of 150th Street and extends to about half a mile west of 158th Street. Eastbound, it begins roughly half a mile west of 158th Street and continues to just west of 150th Street.

New signage will be installed along these sections. Static signs indicating the new limits will be put up during the week of August 25. Dynamic signs that display drivers' current speeds are scheduled for installation later in the fall.

KDOT Secretary Calvin Reed emphasized the collaborative nature of this effort: "The speed reduction initiative is the result of a collaboration between KDOT and the city of Basehor." He highlighted that addressing community concerns is part of KDOT's mission and mentioned signing a Speed Reduction Resolution as an initial step. Reed noted that while lowering speeds can help reduce crash rates, motorist behavior remains crucial for road safety. Community outreach efforts will focus on promoting safe driving practices.

Reed looks forward to continued collaboration with citizens and local leaders as part of this safety initiative.

Information from this article can be found here.