Good morning, Lawrence.

City staff will ask the Lawrence City Commission today to approve 555 Stoneridge Drive as the site for a new fire station estimated to cost about $13 million.

The nearly 13,000 square-foot facility is designed to cut response times with design services starting late 2025 and construction beginning in 2027—completion is expected in 2028.

Today, Lawrence city commissioners will vote on 2026 budget options that may raise property taxes and charge rec center fees to help fix a large budget gap—staff estimates show a home valued at $200K may see its taxes rise by about $38 and water and wastewater rates could also increase for the next three years. The board will decide among three proposals while community members voice strong concerns about the new fees.

The Lawrence-Douglas County Metropolitan Planning Organization is updating the Lawrence Bike Plan and is asking community members to share feedback through open houses and an online survey.

Public input will be gathered at sessions scheduled for Sept. 30 at the Lawrence Public Library Auditorium—Sept. 27 at the Farmers Market—Oct. 4 at River Trail Riot—and Octoginta on Oct. 11, while the survey runs from Sept. 22 to Oct. 20 to help shape future cycling improvements in Lawrence.

University researchers from KU gathered data from 2,000 Kansans and released the United to Transform report that examines substance use disorder services in the state.

The study found gaps in medication-assisted treatment and hospital care in rural areas—information that local leaders can use to improve future support.

University of Kansas researchers released the United to Transform report that shows Kansas’ gaps in substance abuse disorder care—fewer than 5% of patients get key treatments while many who need help do not seek it.

The study talked with 2,000 locals and calls for better care to keep Kansans healthier.

Mdou Moctar Concert

7-9:30 p.m. — The Bottleneck — Cost not mentioned — Experience the unique sounds of Mdou Moctar in an intimate venue setting.

James Koan III Live Concert

7-9:30 p.m. — Studio 901 House Concert Series — Cost Info Not Provided — Experience a soulful evening with James Koan III's intimate live performance.

David Luther Live at The Oread Hotel

6-10 p.m. — The Oread Hotel — Cost info not provided — Enjoy an intimate solo acoustic performance in the historic Oread Hotel.

Orchard Nights Volunteer Experience

5:30-7:30 p.m. — Lawrence Community Orchard — Free entry — Discover and taste a variety of fruits while volunteering at the orchard.

Pasta Night: Pappardelle al Cinghiale

4:30-9 p.m. — Pane e Vino Wine Bar & Academy — Reservations required for dinner — Indulge in house-made pappardelle with authentic Tuscan wild boar ragú.

Alestorm Concert

7-8:30 p.m. — The Granada — $65-$225 — Celebrate the spirit of pirate metal with a lively performance from Alestorm.

Cider Gallery Event

1-8 p.m. — Cider Gallery — Free entry — Explore a versatile event space perfect for social gatherings and artistic showcases.

Pop-Up Dinner & Wine Experience

4:30-9 p.m. — Pane e Vino Wine Bar & Academy — Reservations recommended — Enjoy a fun evening featuring delicious pop-up dishes and curated wine flights.

Pasta Night: Spaghetti alla Carbonara

4:30-9 p.m. — Pane e Vino Wine Bar & Academy — Reservations required for dinner service — Savor house-made spaghetti alla carbonara with local ingredients alongside an authentic Italian experience.

Orchard Nights Volunteer Experience

5:30-7:30 p.m. — Lawrence Community Orchard — Free entry — Discover the joys of seasonal fruit while volunteering at the community orchard.