A joint venture between two Wichita-based general contractors has secured the largest construction contract in the history of the Kansas Department of Transportation, marking a major milestone for the state’s transportation program.
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Kansas DOT awarded a $287.97 million contract for the reconstruction of U.S. 54 and K-96 in Sedgwick and Butler counties, according to a state news release. The agency said the project represents the largest construction award it has ever issued based on total dollar value.
“This project represents a continued investment in the Kellogg corridor,” Nick Squires, Kansas DOT District Five engineer, said in the release. “Expanding U.S. 54 to six lanes and adding modern interchanges will improve traffic flow and support long-term mobility in the region.”
The contract was awarded to Dondlinger Wildcat EKC1, a joint venture between Wichita-based contractors Dondlinger & Sons Construction and Wildcat Construction. The two firms have partnered on previous infrastructure projects, including improvements at Wichita’s wastewater treatment plant, according to a Dondlinger LinkedIn post.
The project includes the reconstruction and expansion of approximately two miles of U.S. 54, converting the corridor into a six-lane roadway. Crews will also rebuild about one mile of K-96 north of U.S. 54, Kansas DOT said.
In addition to roadway widening, the scope of work includes 26 bridge replacements, including the U.S. 54 interchanges at K-96, 143rd Street, and 159th Street. Plans also call for the construction of 32 new retaining walls and several two-lane frontage roads, designed to maintain access for nearby businesses and local traffic during and after construction.
The project is part of Kansas DOT’s Eisenhower Legacy Transportation Program, a 10-year, $10 billion initiative aimed at modernizing and strengthening the state’s transportation infrastructure. The program focuses on improving safety, mobility, and economic competitiveness across Kansas.
The Dondlinger Wildcat EKC1 joint venture expects to begin construction in spring 2026, with work contributing to long-term capacity improvements in one of the region’s most heavily traveled corridors.
State transportation officials said the project underscores Kansas DOT’s commitment to investing in major infrastructure upgrades that support regional growth, freight movement, and commuter travel.
Originally reported by Sebastian Obando, Reporter in Construction Dive.
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