Memorandum

City of Lawrence

Public Works

TO:	David L. Corliss, City Manager
FROM:	David P. Cronin, P.E., City Engineer
CC:	Charles Soules, P.E., Director of Public Works
Date:	October 8, 2012
RE:	Project PW1012 - Iowa Reconstruction - Irving Hill Overpass to Yale Rd. Temporary construction easements for 1235 Iowa and 1301 Iowa

Project Details

This project includes the complete reconstruction of Iowa Street from the Irving Hill overpass to Yale Road.  Reconstruction includes full depth pavement removal and concrete replacement, curb and gutter, subgrade preparation, storm sewer and drainage improvements.  The project is scheduled for a January 2013 letting date with construction from February to December 2013.

Right-of-way and easement acquisition

Construction and pedestrian easements are needed for twenty-two tracts and all temporary easements have been acquired except for two; 1235 Iowa and 1301 Iowa, both properties owned by Calvin E. & Anneliese L. Engleman, Co-trustees.   The temporary construction easements needed are to reconstruct the residential driveways to tie in appropriately.  Without the easements, the properties won't have access to Iowa.  The Englemans have been reluctant to sign easement documents due to concerns about liability from construction activities and want to be named as an additional insured on an insurance policy.  The city has an agreement with KDOT that the city is responsible for right-of-way acquisition and KDOT will not require the contractor to name the owner as an additional insured. The contractor will be required to carry appropriate insurance for all work during project. 

To stay on the project schedule and keeping in mind time for condemnation proceedings, city staff is initiating the process for condemnation, but will continue to work with the Englemans on a resolution. 

Action Request

Authorize staff to begin condemnation proceedings to acquire temporary construction easements for 1235 Iowa and 1301 Iowa.