Transportation project updates

Construction on the Lackman Trail

Photo by Leonard Rosen

SAFE TRAVELS

While traveling through Lenexa, you may notice some key transportation infrastructure projects under construction. They’re designed to improve safety and access for those navigating Lenexa by foot, bike or car.

The new Lackman multipurpose trail is on track to open in November 2020. This 10-footwide concrete trail fills key missing segments along Lackman Road from 95th Street to 87th Street Parkway and on 95th Street from Lackman Road to Loiret Boulevard. The project also includes a pedestrian crossing between Sar-Ko-Par Trails Park and Bois D’Arc Park. The new connections will create continuous trail access to Sar-KoPar Trails Park, Bois D’Arc Park, Electric Park, City Center and the Little Mill Creek trail system. A new traffic signal at 79th Street and Renner Road is the centerpiece of a project that kicked off in late July. Other improvements include a southbound right-turn lane on Renner Road and new street lights on Renner Road from 79th Street to 80th Terrace. This project, expected to enhance safety at the entrance to Shawnee Mission Park, is funded by the cities of Lenexa and Shawnee and by the Johnson County Parks and Recreation District. Work continues on extensive improvements to the 95th Street and Santa Fe Trail Drive intersection and surrounding area. Updates including a new traffic signal, new turn lanes, storm drainage and streetlights are planned to wrap up this fall.

Even well-lit streets require caution at night

As new LED streetlights add bright white light to areas of east Lenexa and Old Town, you may be interested in taking advantage of the cool air and lighter streets to go for a walk or jog at dusk. Before you take off on an evening jaunt, take note of these safety precautions from the Lenexa Police Department. • Use trails or sidewalks. Don’t walk in the street when possible. • There is safety in numbers.

Whenever possible, go out with another person or use well-traveled routes that frequently have other pedestrians. • Take your cell phone in case of an emergency, but don’t let it become a distraction. • Tell someone where you’re going and the route you intend to take. • Stay aware of your surroundings. Make polite eye contact with others to signal your awareness. • Be seen. Light-colored or even reflective clothing helps you be more visible to drivers. • Use lighted crosswalks or intersections to cross the street.

Avoid crossing on hills, which may obstruct drivers from seeing you. • Invest in a small flashlight that can be tucked in a pocket or carried easily in your hand. • Carry a deterrent such as pepper spray or a walking stick.