K-156 detour reminder for Hodgeman County traffic

Posted May 6, 2026

The Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) reminds motorists that a signed state detour remains in place on K-156 in Hodgeman County due to an ongoing shoulder widening project.

KDOT has observed an increase in heavy truck traffic, including cattle haulers, attempting to bypass the designated detour by using local county roads. These roads are not designed to support sustained heavy truck traffic, and multiple incidents have occurred where trucks have become stuck, resulting in delays and potential damage to local infrastructure.

Motorists, especially commercial vehicle operators, are advised to follow the official KDOT detour route, which utilizes state highways designed to accommodate higher traffic volumes and heavier loads. Navigation systems may suggest alternate routes; however, these routes may not be suitable for large or heavy vehicles.

KDOT urges all motorists to:

• Follow posted detour signage

• Avoid using county roads not designated for truck traffic

• Allow additional travel time while the project is underway

For information regarding the shoulder widening project in Hodgeman County contact David Ubel, Area Construction Manager, at 620-682-7938 or Yazmin Moreno, Southwest Public Information Officer, at 620-765-7080. For current road conditions and updates, visit www.kandrive.gov or call 511 within Kansas

Photo courtesy of KDOT Southwest Kansas
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