Memorandum

City of Lawrence

City Attorney’s Office

TO:	David L. Corliss, City Manager
FROM:	R. Scott Wagner, Management Analyst
CC:	David Cronin, P.E., City Engineer Toni Wheeler, City Attorney
Date:	November 21, 2013
RE:	PW1208 - 23rd & Iowa Reconstruction & Geometric Improvements

Please include the following item on the City Commission Agenda for consideration at the November 26, 2013 meeting.

Project Description

Proposed geometric improvements include dual left turn lanes for all approaches and reconfiguration of the free flow right turn lanes for west, south and north bound. In addition to reducing the queue lengths of the left turning traffic, the proposed dual left turn lanes will also improve through and right turning movements, especially during the morning and afternoon peak hours. The reconfiguration of the right turn lane would reduce the number of accidents involving merging and weaving movements. The reconfiguration plan will also improve pedestrian safety at this location.

This project will involve complete reconstruction of the intersection pavements and approaches with concrete. The remainder of the area within the project limit will be milled and overlaid with asphalt surfacing. The project will include removal and replacement of existing drainage structures, replacement of the traffic signal system, sidewalks, utility adjustments and aesthetic improvements including landscaping. Other improvements include access modifications to the property on the northeast corner and modifications to  the retaining wall/sidewalk on the southwest corner to bring the shared-use path behind the wall.

Project Schedule

Engineering Design and Construction Final Plans: November 2013

KDOT Bid Letting: February 19, 2014

Construction: Spring to Fall 2014

Right of Way and Easement Acquisition

Various property interests – right-of-way, pedestrian and landscape easements and temporary construction easements, are needed on each corner of the intersection in order to construct the improvements.  Appraisals were conducted by Aul Appraisals in August and offer letters were sent to property owners in late August/early September.  In order to keep the project on KDOT’s bid schedule, staff is recommending initiation of eminent domain proceedings to ensure timely acquisition.  Staff will continue to negotiate acquisition of the required takings and is hopeful that filing of an action in Douglas County District Court will not be necessary.

Action Requested

Adopt on first reading, Ordinance No. 8943, condemning required property interests for the 23^rd and Iowa Street intersection improvements and authorizing filing of an eminent domain action in Douglas County district court.