Algonquin to build new path, widen Highland Avenue

Algonquin is applying for state funds to build next year a new "shared-use" path for walking, bicycling, and inline skating.

The path will run along Highland Avenue from Tanglewood Drive to the village limits with Barrington Hills. Additionally, Highland Avenue will be completely redone, including new curbs and gutters, an enclosed storm sewer system, and widening from the current 22 feet to 28 feet. The estimated cost for the roadwork is $2.75 million, with local funding covering about $1.25 million.

The asphalt path will be 10 feet wide and 3,300 feet long. It will run past the southern boundaries of Presidential Park and Prairie Path, a future residential development.

"We're a community that has for many years preached conservation," Trustee Jim Steigert said about the path. "It's for the safety of the residents and the continuation of village policy of increasing our connectivity of bicycle paths."

The village board voted Tuesday to apply for the state grant to cover the majority cost of the path project, estimated at almost $307,000. Algonquin would be responsible for paying a little more than $80,000. The Illinois Transportation Enhancement Program would finance the majority of the path.

"As a fiscally responsible community we seek out all available sources for funding that will enhance the community while not impacting Algonquin taxpayers," Village President John Schmitt said in an email.

The village already has finished, and the state has approved, the first phase of the project's design. Construction would begin in summer, 2016, with completion targeted for the fall, said Robert Mitchard, the village public works director.