Algonquin wants to know what you think

The upcoming Randall Road pedestrian crossing study is all about you.

On Wednesday, Algonquin officials are opening the floor to residents, business owners, motorists and other interested parties to discuss where and what types of crossings the village should install along Randall Road, the village's retail-rich corridor.

Village leaders also will be in attendance but have been asked not to comment during the proceedings.

Based on what's said Wednesday, officials will meet with engineers and hire a consultant to compile a study detailing the most feasible options.

At another meeting this fall or in the winter, the public will have an opportunity to comment on them.

The board will vote on the plan at a later date, possibly in the spring, said Senior Planner Katie Parkhurst, whose department is organizing the entire process.

This approach - asking the public first and writing a document based on what they want - marks a departure from how the village typically does things.

But officials really want to know what's on your mind and have decided this format is the way to go, Parkhurst said, adding that she hopes at 100 people attend.

"We're not presenting any ideas. We're saying, 'You tell us what you would like to see,'" she said.

The study, the first part of an overall construction plan, is moving ahead in response to concerns that there aren't enough pedestrian-friendly crossings along Randall Road.

Right now, there are just two crosswalks across Randall Road, one is at Bunker Hill Drive and the other is at County Line Road, Parkhurst said.

Participants are asked to come early so they can sign in. After an overview from village officials, people will break into smaller groups to discuss the issue at hand and later on in the night, will present their ideas to the entire room.

The meeting is scheduled for 7 to 9 p.m. in the auditorium at Jacobs High School. For details, call (847) 658-4184.