The Grandview Triangle is neither triangular in shape, nor is it in the city of Grandview, but it is well known throughout the metro for its huge traffic back-ups during rush hour periods as the converging multi-lane highways must many times use single lane merging paths, entrance and exit ramps.

The project is expected to take about seven years and be done in five phases, with completion in 2008. Initial work will be the paving of the grass median on I-435 between Bannister Road, or 95th Street, and 87th Street. Steel cable guards that are now in place will be replaced by concrete barriers.

Also planned for the I-435 median is the construction of two through lanes between Bannister Road and Grandview Road to the west that will be designed to carry southbound I-435 vehicles heading to Johnson County.

Repairs will be done to US 71 during the first year, including repavement between I-435 south to Blue Ridge Boulevard. In the fourth phase, the highway will be replaced.

The first phase of construction is estimated to cost $41 million and be completed by the end of 2003. Bids will be awarded this month, with work to begin within 60 days. Contractors will be required to keep all existing lanes open during peak travel times.

Planners had not anticipated the extensive growth in Lee's Summit and eastern Jackson County and in southern Johnson County when I-470 was connected to the intersection of US 71 and the older, less traveled I-435 a couple of decades ago.