Lawrence, September 6, 2025
News Summary
The construction of the downtown bus station in Lawrence has been delayed, with the completion expected in 2027 or 2028, shifting from the prior target of late 2026. The project, costing $2.03 million, includes significant federal and local funding and will undergo a review process as per NEPA regulations. Plans for a temporary bus stop during construction are in place, and the design process is set to begin in 2026. The station will feature various amenities like driver restrooms and real-time departure updates, enhancing public transit in the area.
Lawrence, Kansas – The construction of Lawrence’s downtown bus station has encountered delays, with the completion date now pushed to 2027 or 2028, shifting from the originally anticipated timeframe of the third quarter of 2026. The project will be constructed on the northeast corner of Eighth and Vermont Streets, following recommendations from a steering committee and a subsequent vote by the city commission.
The total budget for the bus station project stands at $2.03 million. Of this funding, $1.62 million is allocated from a federal grant provided by the Kansas Department of Transportation, while the remaining $406,000 comes from local transit sales tax revenues approved by voters in 2017. Given that a portion of the funding is federal, the project is required to undergo a review process in accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA).
The timeline for the NEPA review is expected to conclude in the first or second quarter of 2026, although this may vary depending on the availability of the review team. City officials have acknowledged that considerable delays have affected both the timeline and the overall progress of the station’s development. Once the NEPA review is completed, the city will begin bidding for architecture and engineering services to advance the project.
During the construction phase, Lawrence Transit plans to establish a temporary bus stop, with its precise location yet to be determined. Furthermore, the design process for the new bus station is slated to begin in 2026, incorporating opportunities for public engagement to gather community input.
As the timeline continues to evolve, the city will reassess its budget and staffing capabilities for the downtown station ahead of its opening. The proposed features of the bus station include driver restrooms, dedicated bus bays, sheltered seating with wind protection, an overhead canopy, and digital signage that will provide passengers with real-time departure updates.
In addition to these features, a raised crosswalk will be constructed near the library parking garage to enhance safety and accessibility for pedestrians. The sight of the bus station positions it conveniently across from the Senior Resource Center for Douglas County and in close proximity to the Lawrence Public Library, making it a significant addition to the downtown area.
Lawrence Transit currently operates five bus routes serving the downtown vicinity. Plans include having security personnel present on-site from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. from Monday to Saturday, with funding allocated from the transit department’s operational budget. To keep the community updated on the station’s progress and milestones, the city has established a dedicated website.
Key Features of the New Bus Station
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Total Budget | $2.03 million |
| Construction Location | Northeast corner of Eighth and Vermont Streets |
| Completion Date | 2027-2028 |
| Federal Grant | $1.62 million from KDOT |
| Local Funding | $406,000 from local sales tax |
| Architectural Bid | To commence post-NEPA review |
| Safety Features | Raised crosswalk, security personnel present |
| Design Process Start | Planned for 2026 |
| Temporary Bus Stop | To be established during construction |
FAQ
When is the new bus station expected to be completed?
The completion of the downtown bus station is tentatively scheduled for 2027 or 2028, following delays in construction.
What is the budget for the bus station project?
The total budget for the project is $2.03 million, with significant funding sourced from federal grants and local transit sales tax.
What are some features of the new bus station?
The new bus station will include driver restrooms, individual bus bays, sheltered seating, an overhead canopy, and digital signage for departure updates.
Will there be security at the bus station?
Yes, security personnel are expected to be present on-site from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m., Monday through Saturday.
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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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