The countdown for the Kansas Turnpike’s latest bridge blast is being extended by 24 hours.

The upcoming blast — to drop remaining steel supports for what’s left of an original Kansas River bridge at the edge of Lawrence — now is set for 2 p.m. Wednesday.

The blast originally had been set for 2 p.m. Tuesday, but officials said that recent cold conditions had hampered preparations.

Drivers on the turnpike should expect minor delays leading up to and immediately following the blast time, officials said. Spectators may gather in Burcham Park to watch the explosion in person, from a safe distance.

The demolition is part of ongoing efforts to clear the original bridges — now more than 50 years old — to make room for a new bridge. It’s all part of a $130 million project to replace bridges, overhaul interchanges and make other changes in the area.