A city streets maintenance project in Monmouth that was being delayed by the Illinois Department of Transportation has been given the green light to move forward.
WGIL reported earlier this month that, because of the scope of the work being done, IDOT reclassified a streets maintenance project as a construction project and required additional review.
A $1.3 million road resurfacing and improvement project could see upwards of 45 city blocks worth of roads improved as a result of the work, which Monmouth Aldermen are expected to consider at the October 3 meeting.
“We’re hoping that we’ll be able to get our streets resurfacing project underway this fall,” Monmouth’s City Administrator Lew Steinbrecher told WGIL on Tuesday. “1.3 million is one of the biggest contracts that we’ve had for [local street improvements] in town for quite a few years.”
Steinbrecher tells WGIL that part of the delay was there was also some drainage issues that were to be addressed and making some adjoining sidewalks compliant with the American with Disabilities Act.
“So, there was more than just resurfacing. But, to their credit, they reviewed it quickly as a construction project, and… we were surprised actually, that they had such a quick turnaround and to issue their approval of it.”
Engineering firm IMEG developed the bid specifications, which will be unsealed on September 28, ahead of the next city council meeting.
