Local

One lane of northbound I-135 reopens after train derailment damaged bridge

One lane of northbound 1-135 just past the eastbound K-96 ramp in Wichita has reopened after a train derailment damaged bridge columns.

When the interstate will fully reopen is not yet known.

This map shows where northbound I-135 is reduced to one lane while crews assess damage to a bridge after a train derailment.
This map shows where northbound I-135 is reduced to one lane while crews assess damage to a bridge after a train derailment. Courtesy Kansas Department of Transportation

Officials continue to assess the bridge after opening the inside left lane of northbound I-135.

All northbound lanes had been closed after a train derailed in a rail yard under the highway around midnight on Saturday.

A news release from the Kansas Department of Transportation said that bridge inspectors had determined that two support columns had been damaged.

Northbound drivers had been detoured onto eastbound K-96 and instructed to turn around at Hillside while all lanes of I-135 were closed most of Saturday. KDOT sent out a news release saying one lane had reopened at 8:30 p.m.

Drivers should expect lane restrictions and possible delays, KDOT said.

A train derailment overnight on a Union Pacific line near I-135 and K-96 has caused damage to some of the pillars that hold up the bridge at northbound I-135. The northbound lanes of I-135 remained closed on Saturday while crews cleaned up the area and assessed the damage.
A train derailment overnight on a Union Pacific line near I-135 and K-96 has caused damage to some of the pillars that hold up the bridge at northbound I-135. The northbound lanes of I-135 remained closed on Saturday while crews cleaned up the area and assessed the damage. Travis Heying The Wichita Eagle

This story was originally published March 21, 2026 at 2:23 PM.

Profile Image of Denise Neil
Denise Neil
The Wichita Eagle
316-268-6327
Denise Neil has covered restaurants and entertainment since 1997. Her Dining with Denise Facebook page is the go-to place for diners to get information about local restaurants. She’s a regular judge at local food competitions and speaks to groups all over Wichita about dining.
Get unlimited digital access
#ReadLocal

Try 1 month for $1

CLAIM OFFER