The Vernon Avenue and Highway 100 interchange project will not meet its November 15 completion deadline due to utility permit delays, Engineering Director Chad Milner announced during Thursday's bi-weekly project update.

The Vernon Avenue bridge over the CPKC rail line cannot be finished on schedule because Excel Energy and CPKC Rail have not secured necessary permits for utility line work. The power line was discovered in a different location than originally planned when it was struck in May, Milner said during the meeting.

"We have no control over these two agencies," Milner said. "This bridge will not be done November 15th. We're just past that timing now." The city has been waiting since May for the utility companies to resolve the permit issue, with initial expectations the work would be completed by mid-August.

Meanwhile, the project's most significant traffic impact begins September 15 when all Highway 100 off-ramps in the construction zone will close. The closures affect southbound traffic exiting at Arcadia and northbound traffic exiting at Grange Road, adding to existing restrictions. Highway 100 bridge beam installation continued this week with overnight work scheduled through Friday.

The city plans to support affected businesses through a "Worth the Detour" passport program launching September 15, offering customers loyalty stamps and gift card opportunities at participating Grand View and 50th and France district establishments. Despite the Vernon Avenue bridge delay, Milner said the Highway 100 bridge and ramps are expected to reopen on schedule.