Just 10 minutes from downtown Kansas City, small-town charm and big-city amenities come together in the City of Mission’s downtown district along Johnson Drive. As part of our on-call contract with the city, we enhanced a half-mile stretch of Johnson Drive from Lamar Avenue to Nall Avenue.

The Kansas City Metro Chapter of the American Public Works Association named it the Project of the Year.

The city wanted to improve vehicular and pedestrian safety while enhancing the streetscape and alleviating drainage problems in the area. First, we reconstructed the asphalt pavement and curbs, which included relocating several utilities and expanding the capacity of the storm sewer system to convey a 100-year storm event.

We also installed new sidewalks and street lighting and upgraded the pedestrian crossings to meet ADA requirements, which meant new sidewalk ramps and pavement markings. The project was capped off with unique pavement materials and decorative fixtures.

The transformation brought new life to downtown Mission’s businesses. The project was recognized for its excellence in paving by two Kansas City organizations: The Kansas City Business Journal honored the project with the Capstone Award, and the Kansas City Metro Chapter of the American Public Works Association named it the Project of the Year.