Weekly Traffic Update: October 9, 2026
Published on October 09, 2026
9th Street lane configuration and bike lane work continues
This week, crews made significant progress installing the new lane configuration and bike lanes along 9th Street. White and yellow pavement markings are now in place between Vermont and Illinois streets, clearly defining the new three-lane configuration, buffered bike lanes, and parking stalls along the north side of the street.
Traffic signal improvements
With the new lane locations established, traffic signal crews were also able to adjust vehicle detection equipment at signalized intersections. At Mississippi Street, this will improve traffic flow by reducing unnecessary green turn arrows when no vehicle is waiting to turn.
Coming up next
Work will continue next week with installation of the “zebra” bike lane separators and other safety improvements along the corridor.
Final pavement markings
Green pavement markings for the bike lanes and new crosswalk markings at Tennessee Street are expected later in October. The green pavement material requires the new asphalt to fully cure before it can be installed.
Crews are also waiting to install the Tennessee Street crosswalk markings until asphalt work north of 9th Street is complete. This will help prevent construction traffic and asphalt trucks from damaging the new markings shortly after installation.
Alabama Street to close at W 27th Street for street maintenance
Beginning Monday, October 12, City contractors will close Alabama Street at W 27th Street to work on the south side of the intersection as part of the 2026 Street Maintenance Program.
Local residential access will be maintained on Alabama Street from W 27th Ter. Westbound traffic through the intersection of W 27th Street and Alabama Street will be maintained at all times.
The City anticipates this closure to end by October 30, pending weather or other delays.
Outside westbound lane on W 23rd Street to close from Louisiana Street to Naismith Drive
Beginning Monday, October 12, contractors with Google Fiber will close the outside westbound lane on W 23rd Street between Louisiana Street and Naismith Drive for fiber installation.
The City anticipates this work to be completed by the end of the week, October 16, pending weather or other delays.
Traffic Safety Moment | No Phones in Work/School Zones
As of July 1, Kansas law prohibits handheld mobile device use while driving in active construction zones and school zones. Drivers will receive warning citations during the first year of the law, with fines beginning after June 30, 2027.
Work zones and school zones are places where drivers need to be especially alert. Put the phone down, use hands-free tools when needed, and keep your attention on the road.
Safer driving helps protect students, workers, pedestrians and everyone moving through the area.
To learn more about construction projects around the city and view the interactive map, visit: lawrenceks.gov/construction.
Contact: City Communications, citycommunications@lawrenceks.gov