City officials updated the council on several public-works projects and grant-funded initiatives affecting streets, sidewalks and public facilities.

Staff said a SEPA (ADA) ramp connecting the city parking lot to the waterfalls is nearly complete and is awaiting railings supplied at no cost by the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District (MWRD); the city plans a ribbon-cutting when the railings are installed.

The mayor told the council staff believe the city is “on track” for a Safe Routes to School grant that would fund permanent digital speed signs; the schools listed as potential beneficiaries include Eisenhower, Veterans Memorial, Paul Revere, Whittier, Kerr and Lincoln. Staff said applications have been submitted several times and that city staff are coordinating with county and school contacts.

Other grant-funded work includes a green-alleys program being completed in several locations (funded entirely by grant money), a Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) project on Irving Avenue in the Fifth Ward paid by Cook County, and an East Annex roof replacement financed by a Cook County grant that will replace five roofs and siding.

Public-works staff said resurfacing and street-maintenance contracts are being bid for work deferred during winter, and the mayor reported a $4,000,000 grant to pay for remaining streetscaping work on a multi-phase downtown project; staff have begun early-stage IDOT permit filings and said construction could start in 2027 depending on approvals and bidding timelines.

Council members were updated that certain items—such as ownership transfer for York Street Park—remain outstanding before the city can proceed on related work. No new appropriation ordinances or bids were adopted during the public portion of the meeting; staff will return with schedules and bid results for council action when ready.