The Cost of a Road Trip from Downtown Kansas City to Edwardsville: A Detailed Analysis
Planning a road trip from Downtown Kansas City, Missouri to Edwardsville, Kansas, can be both an exciting and budget-conscious experience. With the fluctuating gas prices and multiple route options available, understanding the cost implications can make your journey more enjoyable. This article delves into the different possible routes you can take, the associated costs based on current gas prices, and ultimately recommends the best route to take.
Understanding Gas Prices
As of October 2023, the average gas price in the Kansas City area hovers around $3.50 per gallon. This fluctuating rate impacts the overall cost of your trip significantly. Knowing this price helps in estimating the total expenses involved in your road trip.
Calculating Fuel Costs
To calculate the fuel cost for the trip, we need to determine the distance from Downtown Kansas City to Edwardsville and the fuel efficiency of the vehicle used for the trip. On average, a typical car gets about 25 miles per gallon.
- Distance from Downtown Kansas City to Edwardsville: Approximately 35 miles.
- Fuel Efficiency: 25 miles per gallon.
Using these figures, we can calculate the total gallons of gas required for the trip:
[ \text = \frac{\text}{\text} = \frac{35 \text}{25 \text} = 1.4 \text ]
Now, calculating the total cost of gas:
[ \text = \text \times \text = 1.4 \text \times $3.50/\text = $4.90 ]
So, the estimated fuel cost for the road trip amounts to approximately $4.90.
Route Options
Route 1: I-70 W to I-470 S
The first route option is taking I-70 W to I-470 S. This route is straightforward and commonly used for traveling between Kansas City and Edwardsville.
- Distance: Approximately 35 miles
- Estimated Travel Time: 35–45 minutes (depending on traffic)
Cost Analysis
Using the previously calculated fuel cost:
- Fuel Cost: $4.90
Route 2: US-69 S
The second option involves taking US-69 S directly towards Edwardsville. This route runs more south and eventually leads you to Edwardsville.
- Distance: Approximately 40 miles
- Estimated Travel Time: 45 minutes to 1 hour
Cost Analysis
Calculating the total fuel needed for this route: [ \text = \frac{40 \text}{25 \text} = 1.6 \text ] [ \text = 1.6 \text \times $3.50 = $5.60 ]
The total fuel cost for this route amounts to approximately $5.60.
Route 3: I-35 S to I-70 E
A third alternative involves taking I-35 S toward the Turner Diagonal, then connecting to I-70 E. While this is a longer route in terms of distance, it offers an interesting drive through various city landscapes.
- Distance: Approximately 45 miles
- Estimated Travel Time: 50 minutes to 1 hour
Cost Analysis
Calculating fuel needs for this route: [ \text = \frac{45 \text}{25 \text} = 1.8 \text ] [ \text = 1.8 \text \times $3.50 = $6.30 ]
The estimated fuel cost for this route is around $6.30.
Evaluating the Best Route
After comparing all the options, the first route via I-70 W to I-470 S emerges as the most cost-effective and efficient route. With a distance of approximately 35 miles and an estimated fuel cost of only $4.90, it offers the best balance of time and expense.
The second route, while slightly longer at 40 miles and costing about $5.60, can be considered if you prefer a change in scenery. However, the additional expenditure may not be justified for the limited additional pleasure it offers. Lastly, the third route via I-35 S is not only the longest but also incurs the highest fuel cost, making it the least desirable option for budget travelers.
Conclusion
Traveling from Downtown Kansas City to Edwardsville is a manageable and economical road trip. By choosing the most efficient route via I-70 W to I-470 S, you end up covering 35 miles for approximately $4.90 in fuel costs. Expect the journey to take between 35 and 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. Enjoy your trip, and reach Edwardsville with time left to explore!