The Kansas Turnpike plans to begin work next week on widening a stretch of the toll road between its Lecompton and east Topeka exits.

Chief Engineer Tom Wurdeman says traffic won't be restricted along the 12-mile stretch. The work should be finished by spring 2007.

The project is expected to cost about $54 million, and will widen the turnpike from four to six lanes. The turnpike says heavy traffic makes the project necessary.

Meanwhile, the state Department of Transportation is working on widening a short stretch of US 40 in west Lawrence.