Geneva parking deck could open in January

Construction of the new third level of the Geneva parking garage may take place some Sundays in January so the project can meet its late January deadline.

The city council gave unofficial approval Monday night, and will formalize the matter Dec. 15.

Walsh Construction wants to be able to work on Sundays for several reasons. It is losing some days in December, according to Geneva Public Works Director Rich Babica, because it won't be able to use a crane to lift and place wall panels. The crane would be stationed on the southern edge of the deck next to the Union Pacific Railroad line. When the crane is being used, the UP requires flagmen to be stationed at the site. But the UP won't provide flagmen during the weeks of the Christmas and New Year's holidays, Babica said.

The Sunday construction would only take place if work is canceled on a weekday due to inclement weather. Walsh will have to get permission from the city administrator several days in advance, and people living near the project will be notified. Work would be allowed from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Jan. 4, 11 and 18. Walsh can also work Saturdays those weekends without special permission.

The Sunday work will not cost the city more because Walsh is being paid a lump sum for the project.

Meanwhile, there will be periodic lane closures on First Street (Route 31) starting Wednesday, as panel installation begins. Eastbound South Street will be closed to through traffic.

The project is on schedule to be substantially completed by the end of January, and could then reopen.

The third level will add 180 spaces to the garage, at a cost of $4.48 million. Commuters who normally park there have been parking in lots at a church on South Street and taking a shuttle bus to the Metra train station.