Storm, Sanitary and Watermain Improvements
In a major step toward modernizing aging infrastructure, I-Solutions is leading a full-scale utility restoration project along Maple Lane in Lawrence, Kansas. Designed by GBA for the City of Lawrence, the project replaces critical stormwater, water and sanitary sewer systems, bringing long-term improvements to residents in this established neighborhood.
I-Solutions is undertaking its largest Reinforced Box Culvert project to date. Requiring heavy equipment that includes a Komatsu PC-490, PC-238, and PC-138 excavators, a Komatsu WA-200 wheel loader and multiple skid steers. This 8’x4′ box culvert system is replacing and enlarging the existing 60-inch corrugated metal pipe storm line. This improvement addresses critical stormwater discharge challenges at 19th Street and Maple Lane with the specific design to manage significantly increased flow volumes. The storm system rehabilitation includes approximately 1,700 linear feet of new box culverts, 1,600 linear feet of reinforced concrete pipe and 30 precast structures.
In tandem with the stormwater work, I-Solutions is replacing the existing water main that serves 37 homes in the neighborhood. The new water infrastructure includes 3,900 linear feet of main with eight fire hydrants, enhancing both water quality and fire protection.
An enlarged sanitary sewer system is also being constructed parallel to the waterline. The sanitary phase includes 1,300 linear feet of SDR pipe and nine manholes, which will improve reliability and flow capacity for area residents. This new system will allow for long-term improvements that the city is currently developing.
Once underground utility work is complete, I-Solutions will reconstruct 3,500 linear feet of curb, 2,100 linear feet of sidewalk, 16 partial driveways and 10 blocks of asphalt pavement to restore the neighborhood’s surface infrastructure.
This 16-month project is being managed and executed by I-Solutions’ Utilities and Concrete teams, enabling a high level of self-performance and quality control. A notable element of the project is the use of Low-Density Controlled Compaction Fill (LDCCP) to replace the existing storm system, an approach selected for its efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
The complexity of this project is heightened by the need to divert active utility systems while maintaining residential access and safety throughout construction. The team has faced particular challenges managing the high volume of stormwater and maintaining flow within the existing sanitary system. Solutions have required close coordination among subcontractors and GBA’s stormwater, water environment, traffic and transportation disciplines.
Collaboration between I-Solutions and the GBA design team has proven especially effective, enabling the project team to troubleshoot and resolve issues in real time without delays in the field. This integration has improved communication around proposed changes and streamlined execution.
Though still underway, the project is currently doing well because of proactive vendor management, efficient work sequencing and strong on-site oversight. As construction progresses, the team continues to adapt, applying lessons learned and maintaining open communication with residents to minimize disruptions and ensure public safety.