Kansas University could have a new gateway – complete with a fountain – on its east side by fall 2006, thanks to a gift from a well-known Kansas family with government and KU ties.

KU alumni Jill Docking and her husband, former Kansas Lt. Gov. Tom Docking, have pledged $500,000 for the $600,000 project, Chancellor Robert Hemenway announced last week.

The gateway will be built near the intersection of 13th Street and Oread Avenue. State funds will be used for street improvements that are part of the gateway construction, KU officials said.

Construction would begin in the spring, pending review by the Campus Historic Preservation Board and the city’s Historic Resources Commission. The project would be completed by fall 2006.

The gateway would feature a fountain with vertical jets of water fitted into a round plaza, landscaping and engraved stone signage.

The traffic booth will be moved south on Jayhawk Boulevard.

KU plans to name the gateway for the Docking family, which includes two former governors and several KU alumni.