FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Aug. 25, 2006

Work begins on downtown streetscape project

Construction has begun on the highly anticipated 10th Street Library District streetscape project. This project, managed by the City of Kansas City, Mo., Capital Improvements Management Office, will affect Library District buildings along 10th Street from Wyandotte Street to the Main Street transit plaza, and along Baltimore Avenue south of 10th Street, including the Central Library Branch and the Library Lofts Condominiums. Construction is scheduled to last until December.

Improvements include the installation of brick pavers, street lights, landscaping, trees, benches and related utility work. The project will continue the streetscape design pattern established within the Library District in conjunction with the redevelopment of the Central Library Branch located at 10th Street and Baltimore Avenue. A future phase of this project scheduled to start spring 2007 will extend the improvements to Broadway Boulevard along 10th Street.

On-street parking on 10th Street will be impacted during construction, and a temporary weekend street closure of eastbound 10th Street will be required in September to accommodate construction of a portion of underground storm sewer. The recommended detour route to bypass this closure is north on Baltimore Avenue or Walnut Street to eastbound 8th Street.

Drivers, bicyclists and pedestrians should be aware that areas adjacent to active construction sites may expose them to dangerous conditions. Individuals are urged to exercise extra caution while traveling through these construction areas.

For more information about this project, visit the Capital Improvements Management Office's Web site (www.kcmo.org/cimo).