Prairie Village Improves 8 Neighborhoods with 2025 Upgrades

Every year, the City of Prairie Village, Kansas reinvests in their community as part of their Paving Program. They update aging infrastructure, boost pedestrian connectivity, and resolve any issues. This year was no exception. The 2025 plan targeted eight sites across the city.

Before beginning design for this effort, we conducted field inspections with the City. We looked at each of the streets that had been identified for the year, noting how much curb and gutter and sidewalk should be replaced. That information was placed in a decision matrix, featuring Prairie Village’s guidelines. Using it, we determined which streets would need a full replacement and which would require spot repairs. This helped us determine costs and identify the streets which should be surveyed.

Armed with this information, the City was able to decide how to move forward and best maximize their budget. They have an estimated annual cost for the program, and having this analysis allows them to prioritize projects to best leverage tax dollars.

After the list of sites was finalized. Our survey team conducted topographic surveys where needed. For the other locations, we used aerial maps as the basis for our designs. This strategy gave Prairie Village the best of both worlds and came with cost savings.

Each site required a separate design to meet the unique demands of the area. For some, we improved the cross slopes and made curb and gutter changes. For others, we updated pavement markings. Area improvements included the addition of ADA ramps, new inlets, and one-offs like special driveways and modifications to intersections.

With this program, the City gives neighborhoods without sidewalks the opportunity to add them. Each time, they issue a petition to gauge residents’ interest. Those at 75th Place chose to move forward with a new sidewalk. This addition required a small retaining wall, which was evaluated by our Structural Group.

At one of the more complex sites, Booth Street, the roadway will be fully reconstructed. Established trees were growing on top of the sidewalk, impacting pedestrians. To create a smooth pathway for all users, the street will be narrowed by 5 feet, and the sidewalk will be moved 5 feet from its current location.

Addressing drainage issues was a primary focus of this project. In many cases, the curb and gutter dipped below the roadway’s slope creating ponding. In these instances, we had to replace the curb and gutter. We also utilized special inlet designs due to the close proximity of area utilities. The structure was placed under the roadway instead of behind it, removing the need for a relocation.

Construction on this project is currently underway. Some sites have been completed, while others are still in the works.