The City of Excelsior Springs is making strides toward transforming its west side business community through the Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) grant. The $21.5 million project will bring significant infrastructure updates, including sidewalks connecting schools and westside businesses, roundabouts, and improved streets to enhance pedestrian safety.
Preliminary meetings with project partners, including Kansas City-based planning firm Vireo, are underway as the city prepares for design and development to begin in late 2025. Construction is projected to span from 2026 to 2031.
Community Engagement and Planning Underway
In October, the Chamber of Commerce hosted a meeting at the Mid-Continent Public Library to discuss changes to driveways along West Jesse James Road. Following a traffic analysis, TranSystems engineers determined the need to eliminate entryways onto the road to improve pedestrian safety. These changes will be funded through the project, ensuring that business owners are not financially responsible. The improvements will enhance stormwater runoff and add pedestrian sidewalks on both sides of the road. The event was well attended.
On November 7, city officials and engineers met to refine plans for pedestrian walkways. The meeting highlighted developments in project administration, environmental assessments, and public engagement strategies. A public information session scheduled for December 12 will allow residents to review project plans and provide feedback. City Manager Molly McGovern emphasized that community input is essential to the planning process.
Key Features of the Project
Plans include the construction of a pedestrian bridge over Highway 69, connecting the Community Center and school buildings. This addition will enable pedestrians to avoid crossing the busy highway, addressing longstanding safety concerns.
Landscaping and environmental considerations are also being incorporated. Officials are working to balance aesthetics, safety, and functionality in design decisions.
The design team is still evaluating options for the railroad bridge on Kearney Road, including widening the existing sidewalk, building a tunnel beneath the railroad, or maintaining the current configuration. While a tunnel is considered the safest option, it is also the most costly and requires railroad approval.
Infrastructure Updates and Timeline
The project includes utility coordination and updates to water mains and roadways to address longstanding issues. Bridge maintenance is another priority, with plans to integrate upgrades into the larger project timeline.
Construction is expected to begin in 2026 and conclude by 2031. Concept designs will be available for public review early next year, with the city optimistic about maintaining its original schedule.
For updates and additional details, residents can visit the project website at https://esmo-safestreets.com or attend the December 12 public meeting.
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