Topeka ? Kansas transportation officials, Gov. Mark Parkinson and dozens of local leaders will reopen a new stretch of road between Ottawa and Lawrence.

The event Wednesday along U.S. 59 marks the completion of the first phase of the expansion of the highway that connects the two cities and spans two northeast Kansas counties. The road is being expanded to four lanes, with smoother curves and improved sight lines for drivers.

Construction crews have completed the first section from Ottawa north to the Douglas-Franklin county line. The remaining sections will extend from the county line to the southern limits of Lawrence.

The stretch of U.S. 59 had been among the most dangerous in the state with several accidents and fatalities in recent years.