After problems on Woodlawn, reconstruction begins this month. How will it affect traffic?
A major road in Bel Aire is set to get a $7.8 million makeover, and construction begins this month.
The reconstruction project will focus on Woodlawn from 37th Street North, which is right on the border of Wichita, to 45th North.
Construction on Woodlawn is nothing new for Bel Aire residents.
This reconstruction project is related to an original project that began in 2021 and was set to be completed in 2023. However, complications led to that construction project to cease.
“The northbound lane began showing signs of sinking, buckling, and tearing,” Nick Bishop, Bel Aire’s public relations and communications director, told The Wichita Eagle. “At that point, construction was paused to investigate the underlying cause.”
Bel Aire contracted Professional Engineering Consultants to conduct an investigation. PEC presented its recommendations to the city last spring before the city submitted the project plans to the Kansas Department of Transportation in fall 2025. The project received official approval earlier this year.
“From the beginning, we recognized the importance of identifying the true cause of Woodlawn’s failure and designing a lasting solution,” Bel Aire Mayor Jim Benage said in a press release. “Although the process was extensive, we can now begin reconstruction with confidence and a clear path forward.”
How will Woodlawn’s reconstruction impact my commute?
The reconstruction will occur in phases, with the first phase beginning April 20. The first phase will focus on Quail Ridge Street to Rodeo Street. For an estimated two months, Quail Ridge traffic will be detoured south and Rodeo Street traffic will detour north as both roads will be closed to traffic.
Here’s a look at the other planned phases for the Woodlawn project and their estimated time frames:
- Phase two, Rodeo Street to Woodlawn Court, is expected to last five months.
- Phase three, Woodlawn Court to 45th Street, is expected to last five months.
- Phase four, Quail Ridge Street to 37th Street, is expected to last two months.
Woodlawn between 45th North and Quail Ridge Street will receive full reconstruction while Quail Ridge to 37th North will receive moderate improvements, including new asphalt and a new drainage system, a Bel Aire press release said. Phases two and three will both see complete road closures while phase four will likely see lane closures when necessary.
The construction is expected to be completed by summer 2027. You can stay updated on road closures on Bel Aire’s website.
