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Roadwork in Lawrence and Douglas County

Construction on a key portion of Iowa Street is set to begin later this month, the City of Lawrence announced Tuesday afternoon.

A “highly anticipated” reconstruction project on Iowa Street from 23rd Street to Irving Hill Road will begin before the end of January, the city said in a news release. The project will deliver essential infrastructure upgrades and create a safer and more accessible road, the city said.

The project, expected to be completed by the end of the year, will include:

• Rebuilding the roadway with new concrete pavement, curb and gutter.

• Adding a sidewalk on the east side of Iowa Street between 19th Street and Irving Hill Road.

• Adding a shared use path on the west side of Iowa Street for pedestrians and cyclists.

• Replacing aging waterlines and installing improved storm sewer infrastructure to enhance drainage and reliability.

• Installing updated streetlights with underground power to improve safety and visibility.

During construction at least one lane will be open in each direction; however, residents should anticipate temporary lane closures and sidewalk detours throughout the project.

Aaron Parker, a senior project engineer with the city’s Municipal Services & Operations Department, said in the release that the work would improve a “vital corridor” for the community.