Project Overview

BNSF Railway is finalizing the process to obtain required permits and agreements from local, state and federal agencies. When open, the facility will generate significant traffic in southwestern Johnson County. More than 16,000 vehicle trips per day, of which 5,000 will be commercial trucks, are forecast to be generated by the BNSF Intermodal Facility and Logistics Park at full build-out.

In planning for the future expected growth on I-35, the Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) is conducting the I-35 Southwestern Johnson County Interchange Project. KDOT is undertaking this project in partnership with the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), the Cities of Edgerton and Gardner, Johnson County and the Mid-America Regional Council (MARC). The study will recommend a location and design configuration for a new interchange that will provide access to the future BNSF Intermodal Facility and Logistics Park and other future growth in the area. There will be several opportunities for public input and feedback.

Some improvements will be made to the existing interchange at I-35 and Gardner Road shortly after BNSF Railway begins construction of their facility. KDOT forecasts that these improvements will adequately provide access for a period of approximately five years following opening of the Intermodal Facility. These improvements will allow KDOT the time to complete the site selection process, interchange design efforts, and construct a new interchange to I-35 at either 199th Street and Waverly Road or at Homestead Lane. However, until construction of the BNSF Intermodal Facility occurs, the existing access to I-35 at Gardner Road and US-56 will adequately serve the travel demand in the region.

This project Web site is an important public involvement tool that will provide timely information on the project progress, and recommendations, public meeting announcements, and an area specific to public comments. We look forward to hearing your comments and suggestions as the project progresses.