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KDOT to Host Open Houses on U.S. 56 Expansion Study

36-mile corridor improvements focus on paved shoulders, passing lanes, and safety enhancements

Molli Fawl

19 Nov 2025 • 2 min read

The Kansas Department of Transportation will host open houses December 9 and 10 to gather public input on a comprehensive study of 36 miles along the U.S. 56 corridor stretching from McPherson to the U.S. 77 intersection east of Marion. The study aims to develop project design options that prioritize safety improvements, add paved shoulders, and identify strategic locations for passing lanes along the heavily traveled route connecting McPherson and Marion counties.

The expansion study will explore multiple opportunities to enhance safety along the corridor, including consolidating highway access points and implementing intersection improvements. The passing lanes component of the project was identified as a top priority in District 2 during the 2023 Local Consult process, reflecting community input on regional transportation needs. Additional improvements being considered will be displayed at both open house events, with no formal presentation planned. Information shown at both locations will be identical, allowing residents to attend either session.

The open houses will be held from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. on both days, with the Tuesday, December 9 session at the McPherson Community Building, 122 E. Marlin St., and the Wednesday, December 10 session at the Marion Community Center, 203 N. Third St. Public involvement specialist Lindsey Milburn can be reached at KDOT.Engagement@ks.gov or 785-296-3830 for questions. Meeting information will also be available online at ksdot.gov/US56-McPherson-Marion for review and comment through December 24.