Long Grove board approves combined phase‑1 engineering study for pathway spine

Trustees voted to approve combined phase‑1 feasibility engineering for two pathway segments that would extend Long Grove’s pathway network north from Aptekisick to Gilmer (the red and blue segments on staff maps). The combined study was estimated at $291,000 and is intended to improve grant competitiveness for the Illinois Transportation Enhancement Program (ITEP) and potentially reduce village construction costs if grants are secured.

Trustee O'Connor (Pathway Committee) outlined the plan and said the village already has $182,000 budgeted for the first segment; combining the additional segment for one study reduces overall engineering costs by about $55,000 compared with pursuing the two studies separately. Staff noted coordination opportunities with IDOT and a nearby developer could further lower village costs if those partners include pathways in their projects.

Trustees debated whether to prioritize the southern segments or instead begin with a simpler northern segment (Diamond Lake Road to Gilmer) that would link several northern subdivisions. Staff noted larger projects can score better for federal grants and that phase‑1 work (topography, environmental screening) improves grant applications. Multiple trustees requested alternate cost scenarios for different phasing choices but supported the combined study as proposed.

The board moved, seconded, and approved the combined phase‑1 engineering study in a roll‑call vote; staff will process a budget amendment and return with further cost breakdowns and potential alternate phasing options.