Pinckneyville council places ITEP multi-use path application on file after 4-1 vote

The Pinckneyville City Council on Aug. 11 voted 4-1 to place on file Resolution No. R-2025-22, authorizing a grant application to the 2026 Cycle 17 Illinois Transportation Enhancement Program and committing to the required 10% local match for a proposed 10-foot, 1.5-mile multi-use path between the junior high school and the Pinckneyville Community Hospital.

Economic Development Coordinator and Zoning Administrator Carrie Gilliam presented a map of the proposed route and said she has coordinated with the Greater Egypt Bike Plan, which hired a consultant for the project, and with the Illinois Department of Transportation, which plans to replace the Beaucoup Bridge and could incorporate the path into its work. Gilliam said the project budget is not to exceed $3,000,000 and that the city's 10% share would not exceed $300,000. She told the council the city has budgeted restricted funds for projects of this type and considers the plan a way to improve walkability and safe access to medical and fitness facilities for residents who cannot drive.

Commissioner Kevin B. Hicks objected to committing local funds, saying the project is not necessary and the money could be used elsewhere. Gilliam responded that the funds she referenced are restricted to certain projects and cannot be reallocated to other uses. Mayor Robert L. Spencer and Commissioner Sammy D. Peradotta emphasized that the action was to file an application and is not a guarantee of grant award or construction.

On roll call the motion to place the resolution on file passed with Commissioners Joshua L. Kuhnert, Sammy D. Peradotta, William B. Stotlar and Mayor Robert L. Spencer voting YEA and Commissioner Kevin B. Hicks voting NAY. The application process will proceed for the 2026 ITEP cycle; award and construction remain contingent on grant selection and any necessary state approvals.