Traffic Impact Study (TIS)
Gardner Travel Plaza Project
GARDNER, KANSAS
Traffic Impact Study: Gardner Travel Plaza Project – Key Insights and Assumptions
Introduction
A Traffic Impact Study (TIS) was conducted by TranSystems to assess the effects of the proposed Gardner Travel Plaza in Gardner, Kansas on the surrounding road network. The study, commissioned by Driggs Design Group, PA, examines the feasibility of the project, the impact of increased traffic, and necessary infrastructural improvements.
Key Findings
1. Overview of the Proposed Development
The 60-acre development is located near I-35 and US-56/175th Street.
It includes two hotels (210 rooms total), 108,300 sq. ft. of retail space, and 21,000 sq. ft. of restaurant services.
The site is currently landlocked, requiring a new T-intersection connection with the I-35 southbound ramp for access.
2. Existing Traffic Conditions
The intersection of I-35 southbound ramp and US-56/175th Street already experiences severe congestion (LOS F in the AM, LOS E in the PM).
High crash rates were observed along US-56/175th Street, particularly at Cedar Niles Road (98 crashes over six years, 20% involving injuries).
Traffic volumes are increasing due to nearby commercial and industrial growth.
3. Impact of the Proposed Development
19,173 additional daily vehicle trips expected, with peak-hour trips at 1,490 (AM) and 1,254 (PM).
Traffic queues and delays will worsen, particularly on US-56/175th Street, requiring mitigation measures.
4. Proposed Solutions
Intersection control upgrades:
Traffic signals or roundabout at the I-35 SB ramp and development entrance.
Traffic signal at I-35 SB ramp and US-56/175th Street.
Lane additions and modifications:
Dual right-turn lanes for I-35 SB ramp to westbound US-56/175th Street.
Dual left-turn lanes at key intersections.
Dual-entry to eastbound to northbound I-35 loop ramp.
5. Future 20-Year Traffic Projections
The study considers regional traffic growth, estimating a 2% annual increase.
The Cedar Niles Road intersection will become a major bottleneck unless additional improvements are made.
The I-35 Moving Forward Corridor Plan (a KDOT and MARC initiative) suggests long-term highway optimizations beyond this study’s scope.
Key Assumptions in the Study
Access to Cedar Niles Road was not considered feasible due to previous discussions with city planners, but the study recommends revisiting this option.
Final development land use and property ownership are subject to change, meaning traffic estimates may shift.
The study does not propose final solutions, only potential improvement strategies.
Future interchange modifications are necessary to support regional growth, regardless of this project.
The Gardner Travel Plaza is a viable project with proper infrastructure enhancements. The study suggests that roundabouts, traffic signals, and lane modifications will be required to manage congestion and improve safety. However, regional transportation planning efforts will need to align with this project to ensure long-term efficiency.
