Normal approves $2.73 million contract for College Avenue–Landmark Drive intersection improvements

The Town of Normal Council approved a resolution to accept bids and award a $2,734,528.55 contract to Row Construction, a division of United Contractors Midwest Inc., for intersection improvements at College Avenue and Landmark Drive.

Council members pressed staff for details on lane configuration, construction staging and the effect on nearby businesses before voting to approve the contract. Councilmember Smith asked whether the project would require widening of the road and how the changes would affect through lanes and turning movements. A staff member said the town has the right of way needed and that the design will create a dual left-turn lane for westbound traffic coming off Veterans Parkway and maintain two through westbound lanes.

Public works staff described the project staging as intended to keep as many lanes open as possible during construction, though intermittent single-lane conditions are expected. "The widening will take place completely to the north," a staff member said, adding that much of the new through lane can be built to the north so existing lanes remain in service for much of the work. Staff also said the project will increase turn-lane storage, including roughly 90 feet of additional storage — about four cars — for drivers waiting to turn into the adjacent Plaza Drive area.

Councilmember questions also addressed the project timeline and which segments of nearby roads will be improved. A staff member identified the target completion date as Oct. 30 ("Halloween, October 30 first is the target date for completion"), and said the improvements will extend to the loop road that connects with Mall Drive. Staff clarified that a north–south road west of Mall Drive is private property and that maintenance and repair of that private road is the responsibility of the property owners, not the town.

The resolution passed by roll call. Votes recorded for approval were: Lorenz — yes; Harris — yes; Byers — yes; Smith — yes; Preston — yes; McCarthy — yes; Mayor Coos — yes.

Project documents in the meeting packet referenced additional elements including curb and signal work; staff told the council they had contacted at least one nearby business owner, who viewed the project positively. Council discussion focused on minimizing traffic impacts to popular businesses during construction and improving traffic storage and safety at the intersection. No specific contract mobilization or construction-start date beyond the target completion date was provided in the meeting.

The council approved the contract after the discussion; staff will proceed with executing the award and coordinating construction logistics with contractors and affected property owners.