Mount Prospect votes to spend more money on Melas to Meadows bridge project

Mount Prospect hit another milestone on its way to reaching the goal of a pedestrian bridge linking Melas and Meadows parks.

Trustees voted 4-2 Tuesday to hire the Ciorba Group for construction engineering at a cost not to exceed $856,458. The village’s share is about $200,000, with the rest funded by grants.

Current cost estimates place the total project at nearly $9.7 million, with federal grants covering approximately $8.6 million, Public Works Director Sean Dorsey said.

Dorsey said Ciorba will include hiring a consultant to supervise the work of the contractor, coordinate with IDOT and see the project through to completion.

A minority of trustees continued to criticize the project, which appears to be headed for approval by the board in February.

Trustee Beth DiPrima, who voted no, said she disagrees with the narrative that there has been consistent support for the bridge over the years.

She also pointed out a 20% cost increase — including typical contingencies for construction projects — would raise the village's contribution by $1 million.

Trustee William Grossi, who also voted no, raised safety concerns about the bridge's 30-foot height, with people potentially falling from it.

Most of the trustees continued to speak in support, with Trustee Terri Gens saying it would improve safety, allow traffic flow efficiency, and encourage walking and cycling as opposed to driving, “a key component to sustainable urban development.”

The public had several questions, including why other communities that would benefit from the bridge, like Arlington Heights, aren’t contributing any funds. Some were also concerned about the village spending money on a project that might not ever come to fruition.

There were also voices of support, including some who praised the project for creating better access for pedestrians and cyclists.