Drivers thrilled I-470 Bridge back open after part of road collapsed weeks ago

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Stephanie Jacobson has tried several ways to get to class for weeks while crews worked on the bridge and can't wait for a much shorter commute on Monday morning. She has been trying to get I-435 & Holmes several different routes. Stephanie was surprised when I told her the bridge opened up Friday at 5:00 a.m.

"Oh my goodness, I came the back way," she said. "It'll probably save me fifteen minutes in the morning."

She isn't alone. Thousands travel on the bridge every day. Crews actually finished construction two weeks ahead of schedule, which means a $760,00 bonus for them and a bonus of a quicker commute for all of those drivers.

"That is huge," said Jacobson. "With five kids going in different directions and trying to get here, that is huge."

Jacobson has another reason to get home faster Friday night. She beamed with pride explaining that her son is the quarterback at Blue Springs South High School and has a big game.

"It is for Friday night lights, " she said "Gotta be there on time!"