Northbrook near completion of downtown streetscape project; ribbon cutting slated after final punch list

Village staff told the Village Board that phase 1 of the downtown streetscape and infrastructure improvements is nearly complete and that a ribbon cutting will be scheduled once remaining branded medallions and a few punch‑list items arrive.

Matt Morrison (presentation), who led the project update, showed images comparing pre-2020 conditions to the recent work and described added pedestrian space, 2,800 square feet of dedicated year-round dining area, new planting beds that capture stormwater for filtration, security bollards, ADA improvements and refurbished street lights being converted to LED. Morrison thanked staff and consultants for drone photography and daily construction oversight.

Why it matters: trustees said the project visibly improved downtown and could encourage private investment; the board discussed incorporating the streetscape standard into the Capital Improvement Program (CIP) so future private development will match the new public design.

Morrison said remaining items include tree grates expected by the end of the month, refinished light poles returning in three to four weeks, branded signs for landscaping walls and a few planter pots. Public Works will design a phase 2 streetscape consistent with the current feel; staff plan to include streetscape standards and phased CIP funding consideration during the next budget cycle.

Trustees and the president encouraged promotion of the new downtown on the village website and planned a ribbon cutting once the branded medallions arrive. No formal board vote was required for the status update; staff said a ribbon-cutting could occur in August and that Public Works will present future CIP items to the board.