Mississippi Street will close at both sides of its intersection with Ninth Street in Lawrence next week as construction continues on the Jayhawk watershed project.
The extended closure, set to begin Monday, April 20, will allow crews to finish underground stormwater infrastructure that will help improve drainage and reduce flooding risk, according to a news release from the city.
“While this work is underway, crews will also begin restoration activities starting at 9th and Louisiana, with the goal of restoring traffic access to 9th Street in time for the beginning of the KU football season,” according to the release.
Once Mississippi Street is closed, crews will open additional parking on the west side of Mississippi Street both north and south of Ninth.
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The areas will revert to no-parking zones after Mississippi Street reopens this summer, according to the release.
“An additional pedestrian route along the north side of 9th Street is expected to open in late April, which will provide another access option for customers and visitors,” according to the release.
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Traffic will be detoured to Sixth Street. Signs are posted in the area, according to the city.
Lawrence Transit Route 3 will also be rerouted during the closure.
“Northbound Route 3 heading Eastbound on 9th St will take a left on Ohio St., a right on 11th St., a right on Maine St., a left on 9th St. and back on its regular route. Stops #208 (9th & Ohio), #209(9th & Mississippi), and #210 (9th and Maine) will be closed,” according to the city’s release.
“Southbound Route 3 heading Westbound on 9th will take a right on Maine St., left on 11th St., left on Ohio St., a right on 9th St. and back on its regular route. Stops #343 (9th & Mississippi), #329, and will be closed. A temporary stop will be installed at 9th & Maine,” the release continues.
Here’s a map of the temporary route:

Read more about the watershed project and Ninth Street construction in the articles at this link.
“Since the start of the Jayhawk Watershed project, crews have installed approximately 2,000 feet of storm tunnel,” according to the release. “With this next phase, contractors will install the final 250 feet of storm tunnel along 9th St., marking the completion of the project’s most significant utility work.”

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