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Peoria Heights approves Hansen 'alternate 2' Prospect Road design, endorses road diet for downtown improvements
Summary
After hearing traffic modeling and funding details, the board approved Hansen design Alternate 2 for Prospect Road (a two‑lane road with center turn lane) to increase ADA access and streetscape improvements, with state funding covering most planning costs.
The Village Board approved Hansen's Alternate 2 design for Prospect Road after a lengthy discussion about traffic modeling, funding and impacts on businesses. Mark, the village liaison to the project, told trustees the planning phase is 80% state funded with a 20% local match and that full design and construction would require additional state grants. He said traffic modeling shows the lane reduction would not create a drastic travel‑time change for motorists under modeled conditions, and that the project includes upgrades to underground infrastructure and ADA compliance.
Trustees expressed concern about staging impacts to businesses, parking, and emergency vehicle access during construction. Hansen and village staff described staging strategies to keep businesses open and estimated an 18‑month staged construction period for the full project, with work concentrated in north downtown sections where businesses are located. Supporters said Alternate 2 best addresses ADA constraints and creates widened sidewalks for outdoor dining and pedestrian access; opponents warned it could change traffic dynamics that bring customers to downtown.
After debate the board voted to approve Hansen design Alternate 2 (center turn lane option) and directed staff to proceed with the next phase. Trustees also asked to prioritize ADA compliance and to continue outreach to business owners and residents during detailed design and construction planning.
