Lake Bluff trustees direct staff to seek bids for Block 1 streetscape after grant outcome

At a May 28 meeting of the Village of Lake Bluff Board of Trustees Committee of the Whole, staff reported the village did not receive Illinois Transportation Enhancement Program (ITEP) funding for the Block 1 streetscape but recommended moving quickly to get contractor bids so the village can decide whether to proceed this calendar year.

The matter matters because the design would widen sidewalks, create a mostly curbless “flex” streetscape for outdoor dining and events, and alter parking and traffic patterns in the downtown central business district. Staff told trustees the work would activate the downtown but carries a sizable price tag and timing constraints for construction this fall.

“Just really quickly, the reason we're bringing this to you, is we wanted to start the conversation sooner rather than later, and talk about some options that you have still,” staff member Drew said as he opened the presentation. He told trustees the village must give staff direction soon if it wants to…