A full walking and biking loop around Lake Storey is on track for completion by 2027 after the Galesburg City Council approved a key partnership step with the Illinois Department of Transportation on Monday night.
The multi-use path expansion—funded by more than $2.6 million in state Illinois Transportation Enhancement Program grants—will extend the existing trail on the north and west sides to circle the entire lake, linking recreational amenities on both shores and improving access to Carl Sandburg College.
The council’s approval of a letter of commitment with IDOT clears the way for the final phase, which includes constructing the path along U.S. Route 150 and using the existing bridge over the lake to connect the south and north sides.
Public Works Director Aaron Gavin told WGIL the design emphasizes safety.
“There will be a 5-foot separation between the path and the edge of the roadway,” Gavin said. “The edge of the roadway will be built up to create a flat area for the path, and there will be a shoulder in between the path and road. In the curved sections of the existing roadway, guardrail will be constructed between the path and the roadway to provide protection to motorists and path users.”
One of the more challenging parts, Gavin said, involves sections where the lake is close to the existing roadway.
“The existing roadway culverts will have to be extended further out into the lake, and earth embankment will be built up along the edge of the lake,” he explained.
On the bridge, southbound U.S. 150 will be reduced from two lanes to one to accommodate the 10-foot-wide path, with a concrete barrier wall separating users from traffic.
Phase I, funded by a $2 million 2021 grant, extends the path along South Lake Storey Road. Plans are complete, with bidding set for January and construction in 2026.
Phase II, backed by a $655,560 2023 grant, completes the loop to the north. Plans are under IDOT review, with bidding and work anticipated in 2027.
“Walking paths improve the quality of life for our citizens and offer wonderful outdoor recreation, health, and wellness benefits,” Gavin said. “We are extremely grateful for the ITEP grants from IDOT, which have allowed us to move forward with this opportunity for our community.”
The completed loop will connect north-side features like soccer and softball fields, beach access, kayak and boat launches, a playground, and hiking trails with south-side spots such as Allison Campground and Lakeside Water Park and Recreational Facility.
It will also enhance ties to Carl Sandburg College on the south side, offering better walking and biking routes between the campus, nearby housing, and lake amenities.
“We are excited to see this work take place to expand opportunities for citizens to enjoy the beautiful lake and quality of life in our community,” City Manager Eric Hanson said. “Having the full loop, with city recreational amenities on both sides and close proximity to the Carl Sandburg College campus and housing, offers positive synergy that will benefit the entire community for years to come.”
The city will cover right-of-way, construction, and engineering costs, while IDOT handles bidding. The city will also maintain the new path and bridge additions.
