April 18, 2025
The City of Lawrence is proud to announce that our East 23rd Street Reconstruction project has received a Project of the Year Award for Transportation from the Kansas Chapter of the American Public Works Association (APWA). This recognition highlights the outstanding planning, design, and execution of one of the City’s most impactful infrastructure improvements.
Completed in 2023, the East 23rd Street project transformed the corridor between the Haskell Bridge and Anderson Road into a safer, more accessible, and more welcoming eastern gateway to Lawrence. With new concrete pavement, curbs, storm sewer systems, traffic signals, and shared-use paths on both sides of the road, the reconstruction prioritized access for all—whether traveling by car, bus, bike, or on foot.
“We’re honored to receive this recognition from the Kansas Chapter of the American Public Works Association,” says Dave Cronin, City Engineer. “The East 23rd Street project reflects our commitment to create infrastructure that serves everyone in our community. This project represents years of planning and teamwork, and we’re proud to see in improving safety, access, and reliability for all who travel this important corridor.”
The reconstruction project also included upgraded pedestrian and transit facilities, improved traffic signal coordination, and a new signalized crossing at Ponderosa Drive. Additionally, three aging water mains were replaced as part of the project—ensuring more reliable service beneath the upgraded corridor.
With this award-winning corridor now open, we thank all residents and travelers who navigated the construction with patience and understanding! The new East 23rd Street stands as a testament to the power of collaboration, thoughtful design, and the hard work of our public works professionals.
Media Contact: City Communications, citycommunications@lawrenceks.org
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