Memorandum

City of Lawrence

Public Works

 

TO:

Mike Wildgen

FROM:

Chuck Soules

CC:

Dave Corliss, Debbie Van Saun, Terese Gorman

Date:

September 22, 2005

RE:

Project No. 15-CP4-404(C)

Kasold Drive, Bob Billings Parkway to W. 22nd Street

Street, Storm Sewer Improvements

September 27, 2005 Regular Agenda Item

 

The history of this project can be viewed in the study session staff memo of September 7, 2005. 

 

During the study session several project components (median width, sidewalk width, etc.) alternatives were discussed, along with potential costs.  Area neighbors voiced both their support and issues/problems with the project design. 

 

The largest single issue that still remains is preservation of the green space on the west side of Kasold between Augusta Drive and Scioto Drive.  In order to get this project back on track we have detailed an “Option 6”.  This option would only include a 3’ concrete median for access/left turn control, 6’ sidewalk, a shorter retaining wall (approximately 6’ at maximum height), and a metal/steel railing.  Most of the green space, approximately 7’ (variable), will remain undisturbed and tie in at the top of the retaining wall.  The existing green space has a slope of approximately 50%.  Staff has reviewed Option 6 with Mr. Banks who has concurred with this redesign.

 

The construction cost difference for Option 6 versus the currently designed Option 5 is approximately “a wash”.  Option 6 saves costs for construction of retaining wall height, sidewalk width, and adjacent neighbor/property owner fencing; however, includes additional costs for railing and construction sequencing issues (a concrete barrier wall will need to be placed between construction activity and maintaining traffic through the project.  Drainage issues may also become a construction challenge).  Re-engineering/redesign costs, however, are estimated to be $80,000 - $90,000.  Option 6 will require the redesign of the project from the intersection at Augusta to Scioto Drive, approximately 30%-40% of the project.  The redesign effort will include new alignment (horizontal and vertical), storm sewer adjustments, cross sections, typical section, quantity calculations, earthwork calculations, traffic control, and new plan sheets will need to be developed for this section.  Redesign will take 3-4 months and this project could be ready for bid in February/March 2006.

 

Finally, we need direction on the material for the retaining wall.  Attached is a photo of a retaining wall that is currently being installed on a private project at Bob Billings Parkway and Crestline Drive.  This is a Keystone block (which is the block that is currently incorporated in the plan).  The railing would be similar to the railing at the Runza Restaurant on 6th Street just east of Kasold.

 

The city’s goals for this project included construction of a facility that would serve the public, an improved road that would have a long life and low maintenance, provide improved access for

pedestrians, and include the adjacent neighbors in the design process to ensure their satisfaction with this project’s aesthetics since their properties are adjacent to the proposed improvements.

 

During this process staff held two public meetings, originally presented four options to the Commission, and developed a fifth option per the Commission’s direction.  Staff and Bartlett & West have spent numerous hours responding to neighbors emails, phone calls, and meetings (one on one) discussing how the project would affect each property.  Not until the June 28, 2005 meeting of the City Commission was there any indication that the neighborhood was dissatisfied with the project.

 

The construction sequencing option has been settled.  Traffic will be carried through construction (as physically practical).  This issue was the main concern of the neighborhood at the June 28, 2005 meeting.

 

On a positive note, Joe Caldwell and I visited with the KU Endowment Property Management Committee on September 16.  The Committee was very receptive to providing the City with the easements and right-of-way (for a signal) needed for this project without compensation.  The Committee was glad they could be a partner in this project.

 

Action Requested:

 

  1. Provide staff direction on which option the Commission would like to construct.
  2. Provide direction on retaining wall material.

 

Respectfully submitted,

Charles F. Soules, P.E.

Director of Public Works

 

CFS/je