Simmons Street and Parking Lot H will fully re-open to traffic by the end of the day on Friday, Oct 10. While major construction components of the downtown road and parking lot revitalization are complete, the remaining aesthetic finishing touches will be finalized with the roadway and parking lot open to traffic, minimizing future disruption.
“Thanks to a Rebuild Illinois Downtown and Main Streets Grant, we’ve had the invaluable opportunity to significantly enhance our downtown core, making it more accessible and welcoming,” said Aaron Gavin, Director of Public Works. “We are proud of the progress and look forward to delivering the final, transformative touches—on schedule—before the construction season wraps up.”
The Simmons Street streetscape and parking lot improvement project began in March 2025 and involved staged closures to facilitate construction. Key infrastructure improvements already completed include asphalt resurfacing, new ADA-compliant sidewalks, curb and gutter upgrades, storm sewer improvements, and decorative lighting.
Finishing touches will complete the project’s aesthetics and rejuvenate the downtown block and busy parking lot, which is often filled during downtown events. This remaining work includes landscaping, installation of benches, trash receptacles, a pedestrian canopy, and bike racks. This work will be finalized with the roadway and parking lot open to the public and concluded before the end of the construction season.
“The successful completion of this project, which modernizes our infrastructure and beautifies our downtown, is a tangible sign of the forward momentum underway in our community,” City Manager Eric Hanson said.
“While we celebrate this success, we simultaneously push forward with strategic investments throughout our community, including job growth, neighborhood enhancement, and recreational improvements that will benefit all Galesburg residents.”
