TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) has awarded a $287.97 million contract for the reconstruction of U.S. 54 (East Kellogg Avenue) and K-96 in Sedgwick and Butler counties.
It is the largest project KDOT has let to construction in terms of dollar amount. In October 2024, the I-70 Polk-Quincy Viaduct was the largest project let to construction at $239 million. KDOT approved the bid to Dondlinger Wildcat EKC1 LLC, a joint venture based in Wichita, which was part of the Dec. 17, 2025, monthly bid letting. Construction is expected to begin in spring 2026.
The East Kellogg Avenue project will reconstruct and expand about 2 miles of U.S. 54 to a six-lane corridor from east of I-35/127th Street to east of 159th Street. It will also reconstruct about 1 mile of K-96 north of U.S. 54.
Other project highlights include:
- A total of 26 bridge replacements, including the U.S. 54 interchanges at K-96, 143rd and 159th streets.
- 32 new retaining walls.
- Several two-lane frontage roads to help support local business access.
“This project represents a continued investment in the Kellogg corridor,” said District Five Engineer Nick Squires. “Expanding U.S. 54 to six lanes and adding modern interchanges will improve traffic flow and support long-term mobility in the region.”
The project is part of KDOT’s Eisenhower Legacy Transportation Program (IKE), a 10-year, $10 billion program focused on preserving, modernizing and expanding Kansas’ transportation system. KDOT will provide updates regarding specific construction schedules and anticipated traffic impacts as the project progresses.
For more information and project maps, visit the official website at ksdot.gov/projects/south-central-kansas-projects/east-kellogg-k-96-to-159th-street.
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