News Summary
The construction of the new downtown bus station in Lawrence has been delayed to 2027 or 2028 due to challenges in environmental review processes and project planning. Initially expected to open in 2026, the project will cost approximately $2.03 million, with significant federal funding involved. Plans include improved facilities and accessibility, while a temporary bus stop will be established during construction. Community engagement is planned for the design in 2026, and safety features like raised crosswalks will be implemented to enhance user experience.
Lawrence’s Downtown Bus Station Project Delayed to 2027 or 2028
The construction of the new downtown bus station in Lawrence has faced delays and is now expected to open between 2027 and 2028, moving back from the original target of the third quarter of 2026. The revised timeline reflects challenges related to environmental review processes and necessary adjustments to project planning.
Initial Plans and Location
The bus station will be positioned at the northeast corner of Eighth and Vermont Streets, a site chosen after recommendations from a steering committee and a formal vote by the city commission. Once completed, the station aims to provide better facilities for local transit services and improve accessibility for residents and visitors.
Funding and Budget
The total estimated cost for the project is $2.03 million. A significant portion of this budget, approximately $1.62 million, will be funded through a federal grant from the Kansas Department of Transportation. The remaining $406,000 will come from local transit sales tax funds, which voters approved in 2017. These financial resources support the city’s efforts to modernize its transit infrastructure.
Environmental Review and Timeline
Part of the project’s federal funding makes it subject to the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) review. This review process is currently underway, with an anticipated completion date around the first or second quarter of 2026. However, this timetable remains flexible because it depends on the availability of the review team and other procedural factors.
Impact of Delays and Next Steps
City officials have acknowledged significant delays in the project timeline, which have impacted planning and progress. The NEPA review results, once made available to the public, could lead to further adjustments in the project, including potential changes to traffic flow, safety measures, and accessibility features.
Design and Construction Planning
Following the completion of the environmental review, the city will open bidding for architecture and engineering contracts necessary to move forward with construction. During this period, a temporary bus stop will be established to serve riders while construction is underway. The location of the temporary stop is yet to be determined.
Design Process and Community Engagement
In 2026, Lawrence Transit plans to begin designing the bus station, involving the community through public engagement opportunities. The station’s intended features include driver restrooms, individual bus bays, seating with wind protection, an overhead canopy, and digital signage showing departure times to enhance user experience and safety.
Accessibility and Safety Enhancements
As part of safety improvements, a raised crosswalk will be installed near the library parking garage, promoting safer pedestrian movement around the station area. The station’s proximity to key local landmarks includes the Senior Resource Center for Douglas County and the Lawrence Public Library.
Service and Security
Lawrence Transit currently operates five bus routes within downtown, providing essential transit options for residents. Additionally, security personnel are expected to be present at the station from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m., Monday through Saturday. Funding for security will be included in the transit department’s operational budget.
Public Information and Updates
The city has established a dedicated website to keep residents informed about milestones and updates related to the downtown bus station project. This initiative aims to maintain transparency and provide ongoing communication as the project progresses toward its eventual completion.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Lawrence Times: Downtown Transit Hub Construction Delayed
- KCTV5: Lawrence Picks Location for Downtown Bus Station
- LJ World: Downtown Bus Station Faces Speed Bump
- The Kansan: Are Lawrence Buses Accessible Enough?
- KCTV5: Lawrence Bus Route Schedule Changes Take Effect
- Wikipedia: Public Transport
- Google Search: Lawrence Transit
- Google Scholar: Lawrence Transit System
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Transportation
- Google News: Lawrence Transit Updates
Author: STAFF HERE WASHINGTON DC
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