Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Route 9 Sidewalk topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Residents urge council to review IDOT Route 9 sidewalk plan near Bloomington schools
Summary
Neighbors across from Bloomington High School asked the council to pause or review an IDOT proposal to add a sidewalk on the north side of Illinois Route 9, saying it could encourage unsafe crossings, require major yard alterations and remove mature trees; city staff committed to follow up with residents.
Several residents who live along East Empire Street told the Bloomington City Council the Illinois Department of Transportation’s proposed sidewalk on the north side of Illinois Route 9 near Bloomington High and Junior High would create public‑safety and property impacts and asked the city to intervene before bids are let.
Sharon Trowich, who lives directly across from the high school, said the proposed north‑side sidewalk "will create an attractive nuisance, which will encourage and tempt students to cross the state highway where there is no stoplight or stop sign," and asked to be placed on the council agenda for fuller review. She noted the south side already has a sidewalk on the school side and expressed concern about heavy truck traffic and past near‑misses.
Neighbor Craig Gates described terrain changes that would require retaining walls, tree removal and moving newly installed utility poles, and requested more public hearings so residents can speak to detailed construction plans.
City manager Jurgens told council members staff will reach out to affected residents, noted the corridor is part of the city’s sidewalk master plan and said staff will report back to council about whether changes are possible before IDOT moves to letting bids.
No formal action was taken during the meeting; residents requested a future agenda item so the council and staff can review options and coordinate with IDOT.
