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Leawood approves 103rd Street lane reduction and pedestrian improvements near Brookwood Elementary
Summary
The council unanimously approved the Public Works Committee recommendation to convert 103rd Street from four lanes to three between Pawnee and Sagamore, add bike lanes and dedicated left‑turn pockets, and direct staff to further study installing a HAWK signal or relocating a signal at Brookwood Elementary to improve pedestrian safety.
The Leawood City Council on Dec. 15 voted to accept a Public Works Committee recommendation to convert a portion of 103rd Street from four lanes to three (between Pawnee and Sagamore) and to study replacing or relocating the school crosswalk signal at Brookwood Elementary.
Consultant Addison Miller of Affinis presented traffic counts (peak daily volume around 9,400 vehicles) and a comparative analysis of a nearby Mission Road corridor that operates at higher volumes after a similar conversion. Miller said the 3‑lane section with a center two‑way left‑turn lane would reduce mid‑lane stopping and weaving, provide separated bike lanes that move travel lanes away from sidewalks, and allow dedicated left‑turn bays at intersections. He said lowering the posted speed limit alone is unlikely to change driving behavior and recommended not reducing the statutory posted limit solely as a mitigation.
Council discussion focused on peak‑hour impacts, effects for driveway access and side streets, the timing of construction (staff said work is planned for 2026), public notice and signage to reroute drivers, and improved safety for the many children who walk to Brookwood Elementary. Council Member Larson, who observed the corridor on foot, said the design prioritizes child safety even if driver convenience is reduced. Council Member Kane moved to accept Affinis’ recommendation and direct staff to proceed with design and further study of a HAWK signal or relocated signal; the motion passed unanimously by voice vote.
Staff will install signage and a public information campaign ahead of changes, evaluate precise signal warrants for a HAWK or relocated traffic signal, and return with design and timing details for council approval. The project is budgeted; staff indicated construction could begin in 2026. Residents who spoke during the public meetings were cited by council members as a major influence on the final corridor and signal recommendations.
