The Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) confirmed that the southbound lanes of Interstate 29 are closed at the intersection with Cookingham Drive in Kansas City, Missouri. The closure was reported around 2:45 p.m. on Tuesday, November 13, 2026, after an incident that required immediate attention from emergency responders.
What drivers need to know
Motorists traveling south on I‑29 should avoid the Cookingham Drive area and seek alternate routes. MoDOT recommends using nearby surface streets such as 31st Street or the Kansas City Expressway (I‑70) to bypass the blockage. The department also advises drivers to allow extra travel time, as traffic congestion is expected to build on surrounding arteries while the incident is being cleared.
MoDOT response and investigation
MoDOT officials dispatched a crew to the scene shortly after the incident was reported. The agency’s traffic management center is monitoring the situation in real time and will update the public as soon as the lanes can be safely reopened. “Our priority is the safety of motorists and first‑responders,” a MoDOT spokesperson said. “We are working quickly to assess the cause of the incident and restore normal traffic flow.”
Impact on local commuters
The closure affects a key commuter corridor that connects downtown Kansas City with the northern suburbs and the state border. Residents who rely on I‑29 for daily travel to work, school, or errands may experience delays of 15‑30 minutes, depending on the time of day and the volume of traffic on alternate routes. Local businesses near the closure point have been notified and are preparing for possible disruptions in customer access.
How to stay informed
Motorists can follow MoDOT’s official Twitter account (@MoDOT_KC) for live updates, including any changes to the closure status or additional detour instructions. The agency also provides real‑time traffic maps on its website and through popular navigation apps. Drivers are encouraged to check these sources before departing and to remain patient while the situation is resolved.
Community safety reminder
This incident underscores the importance of staying alert while traveling on busy highways. MoDOT reminds all Kansas City residents to obey posted signs, reduce speed in construction or incident zones, and keep a safe distance from emergency vehicles. By working together, commuters can help keep the roadways safe and efficient for everyone.
Original reporting: KSHB 41 Kansas City (local) — read the source article.
