Not really close - probably about 4 hours driving time from KC, maybe a bit less with some luck & good choice of route. I live about 2 hours away & making time for the trip has been a challenge. One other note, the entire archeological area is quite large & is mostly on private land so the discoveries are proceeding on the rate landowners allow access. Some of the finds are being consolidated at a local museum in Arkansas City but a visit to an actual site is only a vision right now. Very much unlike what can be experienced at many National Parks that held ancient civilizations.
Thanks, would have replied earlier but a storm took out internet for the day. It sounds like I wont see it this time.