Lawrence, September 6, 2025
News Summary
The construction of the downtown bus station in Lawrence has been delayed, now expected to complete in 2027 or 2028. The postponement is primarily due to the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) review process, which is crucial for projects receiving federal funding. The city officials also noted that the current timeline may change based on the NEPA review progress. The total budget stands at $2.03 million, with significant funding from a federal grant and local transit sales taxes.
Lawrence’s Downtown Bus Station Construction Delayed to 2027-2028 Due to NEPA Review and Timeline Adjustments
Construction of Lawrence’s downtown bus station, located at the northeast corner of Eighth and Vermont Streets, is now postponed to a tentative completion date in 2027 or 2028. The project was initially slated to be finished in the third quarter of 2026.
The operation has hit snags mainly due to the requirements of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) review process, which the project must undergo because it receives partial federal funding. This review is estimated to be completed by early to mid-2026, although the timeline could shift based on the review team’s availability.
The total budget for the project stands at $2.03 million, with approximately $1.62 million coming from a federal grant provided by the Kansas Department of Transportation. The remaining $406,000 is funded through local transit sales tax dollars, which voters approved in 2017.
City officials have noted significant delays affecting the project’s overall timeline and progress. The final results of the NEPA review will be publicized and may necessitate changes related to traffic patterns, accessibility, or safety measures.
Project Development Plans
Once the NEPA review is concluded, the city will initiate bidding for architecture and engineering contractors to proceed with the construction phase. A temporary bus stop will be established during the construction period with its specific location to be determined as work progresses.
In anticipation of the project’s developments, Lawrence Transit plans to kick off the design process for the bus station in 2026. This will include opportunities for public engagement to gather community feedback.
As the timeline extends, the city will reassess staffing capabilities for the station closer to the projected opening date, considering the budgetary outlook and construction delays.
Features and Enhancements of the Bus Station
The new bus station is expected to include several features designed to enhance user experience and safety. These will encompass:
- Driver restrooms
- Individual bus bays
- Seating areas with wind protection
- An overhead canopy
- Digital signage indicating departure times
Additionally, safety measures in the project include a raised crosswalk adjacent to the library parking garage aimed at improving pedestrian accessibility. The bus station will be conveniently located near both the Senior Resource Center for Douglas County and the Lawrence Public Library.
Lawrence Transit currently serves the downtown community with five bus routes. Plans for the new station project include security personnel present on-site from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Funding for security operations will derive from the transit department’s operational budget.
The city has developed a dedicated website to keep the public informed about milestones and updates related to the downtown bus station project.
Conclusion
The adjusted schedule for the Lawrence downtown bus station reflects a mix of regulatory compliance and operational considerations, as city officials work to deliver an essential public transit facility to the community.
FAQs
What is the new expected completion date for the downtown bus station in Lawrence?
The construction of the bus station is now tentatively scheduled for completion in 2027 or 2028.
Why is there a delay in the construction?
The delay is primarily due to the NEPA review process that must be completed as part of the federal funding requirements.
What is the total budget for the bus station project?
The total budget for the project is $2.03 million, with a significant portion funded by a federal grant.
What safety features will the new station include?
The bus station will include a raised crosswalk, driver restrooms, individual bus bays, seating with wind protection, an overhead canopy, and digital signage.
Key Features of the Lawrence Bus Station Project
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Total Budget | $2.03 million |
| Federal Funding | $1.62 million from the Kansas Department of Transportation |
| Local Funding | $406,000 from voter-approved sales tax |
| Expected Completion | 2027-2028 |
| Key Features | Driver restrooms, individual bus bays, seating with wind protection, overhead canopy, and digital signage. |
| Safety Enhancements | Raised crosswalk and on-site security personnel from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. |
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
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