The City of Mission broke ground on Monday, Aug. 17, on a major reconstruction of Johnson Drive that will run from Lamar Avenue to the Metcalf Avenue bridge. The $13 million project, funded in part by a $5 million grant from the Mid‑America Regional Council and additional County Assistance Road Systems (CARS) money, is slated to be completed in spring 2027.
Phased construction plan
The work will be carried out in six distinct phases. Phase 1, which began on Aug. 17, involves removing the median and closing the inside lanes. Drivers will be unable to make left turns from Broadmoor Street or Barkley Street, though north‑south travel will remain possible at Broadmoor and Lamar Avenue. Phase 1 closures are expected to last about one week.
Phase 2 is scheduled to start on Aug. 24. It will close the eastbound lanes on the south side of Johnson Drive while keeping two‑way traffic on the westbound lanes. Subsequent phases will address pavement replacement, sidewalk widening, native plantings, and new streetlights, all intended to improve safety and connectivity for motorists and pedestrians alike.
Funding and oversight
Public Works Director Stephanie Boyce said the project has been in planning for at least two years. “We know construction can mean some temporary headaches, and we appreciate your patience as we pave the way for a better Johnson Drive,” the city wrote on its website on Aug. 10. Boyce confirmed that the city will continue to provide updates as each phase progresses.
The $5 million surface‑transportation block grant from the Mid‑America Regional Council covers a substantial portion of the cost. The remaining funds come from the County Assistance Road Systems program and required matches from Mission’s capital improvement fund.
Impact on drivers
Residents can expect intermittent delays and lane closures throughout the next year and a half. The city advises motorists to plan alternate routes, especially during the median‑removal week and the eastbound‑lane closure in Phase 2. Pedestrians will benefit from wider sidewalks and native landscaping once the project is complete.
While the construction will inconvenience drivers in the short term, officials emphasize that the long‑term benefits include smoother traffic flow, enhanced safety for walkers and cyclists, and a more attractive streetscape that reflects Mission’s commitment to community development.
Looking ahead
Phase 3 through Phase 6 will be announced on the city’s website as the project moves forward. The city’s public‑works team will monitor progress and adjust timelines as needed to stay on track for a spring 2027 finish.
Original reporting: Johnson County Post (Overland Park) — read the source article.
