Remember the Zipper Merge? These caterpillars do

KDOT implemented the zipper merge (or late merge) last year.

When a lane was closed in a construction zone, the "zipper merge" occurred when drivers  used both lanes up until they reached the defined merge area. They then took turns in a "zipper" fashion into the open lane.

If you didn't have a chance to experience this project, here are some caterpillars who can help demonstrate how the process worked.

We don't know where these little guys were headed, but they probably got there safely and efficiently using the zipper merge technique! 

The Zipper Merge comes to Kansas

We are starting a new feature called Work Zone Wednesday that will highlight projects around the state. Today's feature is about the zipper merge. The zipper merge is popular in Minnesota and has been used in Washington state as well. It's a common question that KDOT gets on social media, when will Kansas use the zipper merge instead of backing up traffic for miles, use the zipper merge?

But what's the zipper merge?

The zipper merge asks traffic to stay in both lanes until they are told to merge, then take turns of every other car going until you are in one lane, flowing together like the teeth of zipper.

KDOT will be using the zipper merge, or late merge, on a bridge repair project in the Kansas City area, northbound U.S. 69 over 119th Street in Overland Park. It is important that drivers follow the signs instead of using the traditional early merge that has been used in Kansas for years. Don't lane block your fellow drivers, the two lanes are both to be used while traveling.

We've created this video to explain how the zipper merge will work in Kansas. For more information about the zipper merge and the project that it will be used on, please look here. And please zip the urge to merge!