St. Charles wants to revamp portions of downtown for improved traffic, cyclist flow

The city of St. Charles could undergo a significant transportation and safety upgrade in a section of the downtown experiencing surging numbers of commuters and bicyclists.

To explore options, including streetscaping improvements, the city is seeking a $99,245 planning contract with Civiltech Engineering for the first phase of work in the southeastern portion of the downtown area.

The contract would need to be approved by the city council.

Improvements eyed in the project stretch along Riverside Avenue between Illinois Route 64 and the intersection of Riverside and Illinois avenues. The area has seen an increase in business activity and the number of cyclists using the regional bike route along Riverside Avenue.

“The increased traffic has led to congestion and occasional safety conflicts between vehicles, pedestrians and cyclists,” Chris Gottlieb, the city’s public works engineering division manager, said during a March 2 Committee of the Whole meeting. “These issues are further compounded by people searching for parking or by festivals we may have in that area.”

The area has become a popular spot for city festivals and special events.

The aim of the project is to improve ease of transportation and safety of travelers throughout the area. The city said it’s looking to create a cohesive connection of the Fox River Trail.

Alderperson Steve Weber said he fully supports the project.

“It’s very much needed, it’s a very successful area, and we need to explore making it safer and making it better,” Weber said.

The city said the project will not involve the permanent closure of any streets in the area or the removal of any parking spaces.

Gottlieb said the city plans to host a public meeting in about seven months to gather residents’ input on the project and the potential options.

He said it will take around two years before the first improvements are under construction.