Memorandum

City of Lawrence

Public Works

TO:	David L. Corliss, City Manager
FROM:	Chuck Soules, Director of Public Works
CC:	Toni R. Wheeler, Jerry Cooley, Scott Wagner, Diane Stoddard, Cynthia Wagner, Jonathan Douglass, Ernie Shaw, Mark Hecker, Walt Ward, David Cronin, Tarik Khatib
DATE:	February 27, 2013
RE:	Westar Projects City Commission Agenda, March 5, 2013

Project/Item Description:

Westar is planning to construct a second transmission line on the north side of Bob Billings Parkway from Kasold Drive to Wakarusa Drive. This transmission main is necessary for additional load capacity and reliability.  Westar has acquired a 10 foot private utility easement behind the City right-of-way all along Bob Billings Parkway.  The City is owner of the McGrew Nature Trail and the Investigation and Training Center (ITC) properties.  To dispose of or sell a park property requires an extensive public process.  Due to the proximity of the ITC property to Wakarusa Drive, Staff is recommending that the City dedicate the additional 10 foot needed as City right-of-way.  Westar can use the right-of-way under our current franchise agreement, however should the City need to use the right-of-way, Westar would have to relocate at their cost.  For example if additional lanes are needed at the intersection of Bob Billings Parkway and Wakarusa Drive.

Westar also needs to connect two transformers along Eisenhower Drive.  This is on the Northwest side of the Park property at Overland Drive and Wakarusa Drive.  Staff is also recommending the dedication of right-of-way for this area.

Action Request:  Adopt on first reading, Ordinance Numbers 8848, 8849, and 8850 providing for the dedication of public right-of-way.

Respectfully Submitted,

Charles F. Soules, P.E.

Director of Public Works

CFS/ch