Memorandum

City of Lawrence

Public Works Department

TO:	Tom Markus, City Manager
CC:	Charles Soules, Public Works Director Mark Thiel, Asst. Public Works Director
FROM:	Jason Stowe, Building and Structures Manager
DATE:	6/8/2018
RE:	Canopy/Walkway update

Background

This is an update on the progress of the improvements needed to the canopy structure located in the alley between 8^th and 9^th Streets and Massachusetts and Vermont.

The covered walkway/canopy, that is in this location, was constructed over 50 years ago. The current condition of the canopy needs major repairs if it were to remain in place (see attached photos). Currently there are several locations where brick facades were attached to the canopy and are separating from the buildings. This separation has created a safety concern for pedestrians, if one of these areas should fail and fall over. Another safety concern is citizens climbing on top of the canopy. The roof structure is not designed to hold additional loads and the current condition of the roof decking is rusted through in many locations creating an even more unstable deck. The roof membrane itself has failed and in some instances is damaging the adjoining buildings. Additionally, the sidewalk has many areas that have heaved, settled or spalled out creating a tripping hazards. There are also ADA ramp concerns that exist in this area and need to be corrected. The storm sewer, below the sidewalk, needs replacement and the canopy cannot remain in place to complete this work. The cost to only remove the canopy without any other work was estimated to be $150,000.00. The cost to rebuild just the canopy and no other work was estimated to be an additional $400,000.00.

In August of 2017, property owners received correspondence that described the work to be completed and the impact to their property. Access to the properties was also requested so that the work could be completed (attached). In December of 2017, an ordinance authorizing the issuance of debt was adopted (attached).

On May 8, 2018, BA Green was awarded the project as part of the consent agenda.

Formal communication to notify all tenants/property owners of the upcoming project was sent by mail on May 24, 2018. Some of these letters were returned as undeliverable. This transmittal indicated anticipated start dates as well as to communicate that utilities would be impacted, and they should anticipate hearing directly from each utility during the phases of construction (attached).

Additional Information:

City staff, Westar, and Midco are working to complete a cost share agreement for removal and replacement of the concrete sidewalk. Each utility has work to be completed in this area and it is beneficial for all parties to participate and coordinate  efforts to limit the impact to the businesses.

It is anticipated that work will begin in mid-July.