Iowa Street Reconstruction – 23rd St. to Irving Hill Rd.

Due to the ongoing winter storm, City facilities, including City Hall and all Parks, Recreation and Culture facilities, will be closed on Tuesday, Feb. 18. This is due to the forecasted winter storm resulting in dangerous travel conditions.

Read the news release for full details >>

The City of Lawrence is excited to announce a transformative reconstruction project for Iowa Street, spanning from 23rd Street to Irving Hill Road. This highly anticipated project began construction in February 2025 and will deliver essential infrastructure upgrades, ensuring a safer, more accessible, and modern corridor for all residents and travelers.

Quick Links

Project Background

The Iowa Street project includes a host of improvements designed to enhance functionality and connectivity, including:

  • Rebuilt Roadway: New concrete pavement, curb, and gutter for a smoother, more durable driving experience.
  • Multimodal Enhancements: A new sidewalk on the east side of Iowa Street between 19th Street and Irving Hill Road, and a shared-use path replacing the existing sidewalk on the west side, providing safe and convenient options for pedestrians and cyclists.
  • Utility and Drainage Upgrades: Replacement of aging waterlines and installation of improved storm sewer infrastructure to enhance drainage and reliability.
  • Modern Lighting: Updated streetlights with underground power to improve safety and visibility.

Traffic Impacts and Timeline

Construction is expected to be completed by January 2026, pending weather or other delays. To minimize disruption, the City will maintain at least one travel lane in each direction at all times. However, residents should anticipate temporary lane closures and sidewalk detours throughout the project. Pedestrian detours will be clearly marked to ensure continued access for all.

This project represents a significant investment in our community, made possible through partnerships with KDOT, KU/KU Endowment, and local businesses. It has been carefully designed to meet the highest standards and accommodate the needs of all stakeholders.

A map of the construction zone with text: "Two lanes of traffic will be maintained on Iowa St. throughout the project. Additional work will be completed in the westbound lane of 23rd St. and the southbound lane of Iowa St. north of Irving Hill Rd. Vehicle speed will be reduced in the construction zone. Businesses in the area will remain open during construction."

Project Updates

The City will provide regular updates on the project’s progress, including any changes to traffic patterns. To get the latest traffic updates and closures sent to your inbox, click here or visit lawrenceks.org/subscriptions to sign up for our Weekly Traffic Updates.

Contact

Aaron Parker, Project Manager — aparker@lawrenceks.org