Lubbock to replace historic Broadway brick this summer

The city of Lubbock is set to start construction this summer to replace the historic brick roadway along Broadway. This initiative is part of a road bond project approved by voters for 2024.

The upcoming project will address the area between Avenue Q and Avenue E, focusing on replacing deteriorating brick with concrete in straight sections while incorporating modern brick pavers at intersections. City officials have announced that the redesign aims to enhance driving conditions while maintaining the historic character of the street.

City engineer John Turpin stated, “By the time we complete this project, it will provide a much smoother experience than currently exists, while the brick pavers will pay homage to the historic character of Broadway Street.”

Construction is set to commence with utility work soon after the city’s Fourth on Broadway Parade in July. The project will be executed in four distinct phases, each approximately a quarter-mile in length. Additional split phases will be implemented to ensure that one lane remains open throughout the construction process.

“The north half will undergo construction, and during this time, traffic will be diverted to the south half,” Turpin stated.

Traffic will be limited to a single direction in active construction zones, with detours established for opposing lanes.

City officials highlighted their initiatives aimed at minimizing disruptions for local businesses situated along the corridor.

“We have focused intently on minimizing disruption to our operations, recognizing that this sector relies heavily on business activity,” Turpin stated.

The city has chosen Ti-Zack Concrete as the contractor for the upcoming project, with final approval from the City Council anticipated on June 9. Turpin stated that the city has had favorable interactions with the firm in the past.

“We will not allow this contractor to arrive, disrupt the street, and then abandon the project,” he stated.

Initially estimated at $16 million, the project's expenses have risen to $17.3 million. Officials announced that the contingency funds allocated within the bond package will address the additional expenses incurred.

“The positive aspect of the voters' decision to allow us to vote on this matter is that we had a contingency fund set aside. This ensures that we will still be able to fulfill all the commitments we made to our taxpayers,” Turpin stated.

The project aims to revitalize a significant downtown corridor, ensuring the preservation of its historic character while embracing modernization efforts.

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