Geneva seeks input about downtown issues
What would make Geneva's downtown better?
The city is hosting a series of meetings with residents and business owners this month to answer that question as it drafts a new master plan for the downtown and the area near the Metra train station.
The meetings will include discussions on parking; safety of motorists, pedestrians and bicyclists; housing diversity; the limit of space for business expansion; threats to historic buildings; changes to government buildings; civic space for events; and transit facilities.
The city council hired Houseal Lavigne Associates LLC, at a cost not to exceed $124,000, to help make the plan. Eighty percent of the cost is being paid for by a Regional Transportation Authority community planning initiative.
Anyone is welcome at any meeting.
The first, designed for residents and the general community, is scheduled for 7 p.m. Wednesday at the public works department, 1800 South St.
The next, for owners of downtown businesses, is scheduled for 8 a.m. Sept. 15 at City Hall, 109 James St.
A session for owners of downtown properties is scheduled for 10 a.m. Sep. 15 at City Hall.
The final meeting, for members of the city's various commissions, is set for 7 p.m. Sept. 28 at the public works department.
The workshops will discuss the purpose of the plan, the planning process and its schedule, as well as offer a chance to provide input on downtown issues.
People who can't attend the workshops can get information and express opinions through the city's website, geneva.il.us. Click on the "City of Geneva Downtown/Station Area Master Plan Project Website" link.
From there visitors can create and send a map to the project team, complete a questionnaire, and review reports, meeting summaries and draft plans as they are posted.
For more information, call Community Development Director Dick Untch at (630) 232-0818.