Sugar Grove begins road extension project
A recent groundbreaking marked the beginning of the Galena Boulevard Municipal Drive extension project in Sugar Grove, which has been under discussion for years.
Galena Boulevard will be extended from Route 47 to Municipal Drive at Route 30, providing a connector road west of Route 47 in Sugar Grove. Construction is scheduled to be completed in July 2009.
The 5,700 lineal foot roadway will consist of two 12-foot lanes in each direction, separated by a 15-foot grass median.
Additional work includes curb and gutter, a shared-use bike/pedestrian path, street lighting, landscaping, storm sewer and water main. Village officials believe the roadway will not only help relieve traffic, but provide the infrastructure to spur the economic development of more than 145 acres.
Sugar Grove staff worked with representatives of the City of Aurora and the Aurora Airport to reach agreement on land use. The Aurora Airport on Route 30 is owned and operated by the City of Aurora, but located partially within village limits.
Officials also worked on funding with former Congressman and Speaker of the House Dennis Hastert, now retired from office. More than $3.8 million came from the Federal Highway Bill. The remaining $6.6 million needed for the project will be provided through the sale of bonds to be repaid with sales tax receipts.
Wildlife Center open house:
The Fox Valley Wildlife Center will hold its annual open house from noon to 4 p.m. Sept. 28. The center is in the Elburn Woods Forest Preserve on Route 38 west of Route 47. Visitors will be able to tour the center which provides care for orphaned, injured and displaced wildlife 12 months a year.
The open house gives residents the opportunity to learn about the purpose and goals of the Fox Valley Wildlife Center through special exhibits, presentations and activities.
Sara Sully will present a program on predators. Master Gardener Sandy Schilingo will discuss butterfly gardening and gardens for small mammals. Chuck Peterson from the Kane County Audubon Society will talk about the loss of local bird habitats. Wildlife Center staff and volunteers will be on hand to answer wildlife questions, including how the rehabilitation process works. Visitors will also be able to meet some of the center's wildlife residents.
There will also be a pie walk, face painting, pumpkin painting and a scavenger hunt for the children, as well as a bake sale. Fox Valley Wildlife Center t-shirts and the 2009 calendar will also be available for purchase.
Tours for special groups such as Scouts or garden clubs are available.
For information, visit www.foxvalleywildlife.org or call (630) 365-3800.