MONMOUTH, Ill. — Big changes are coming to downtown Monmouth in 2024, including slower traffic and a more scenic Public Square!
The city is beginning a "generational" project around the downtown square, where Monmouth's two main streets, Main and Broadway, intersect. It's set to have three main benefits:
- slowing traffic down around the Square by reducing car travel to one lane
- adding more parking spaces around the Square
- beautifying the area through green spaces, new benches and lighting
Sidewalks will also be widened to allow for outdoor café seating for downtown restaurants.
According to a press release from Monmouth College, the program will have a something new, something old effect while providing an old-timey feel to the downtown and brightening up the area.
"This is a generational project that will change the face of Monmouth for decades to come," said Monmouth City Manager Lou Steinbrecher.
The project has been five years in the making, according to Steinbrecher. Monmouth had twice attempted to secure a grant through a Transportation Enhancement Program offered through the Illinois Department of Transportation. Now, the project has finally been funded through a $3 million grant through IDOT's Rebuild Illinois Capital Plan.
Steinbrecher says the project is set to be completed around the end of 2024, with the exception of some landscaping which could possibly tip over into the beginning of 2025.
Steinbrecher joined The Current on News 8 to discuss the project and what it'll mean for downtown businesses, restaurants and community members. You can watch his full interview in the above video.
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