St. Charles Approves Outdoor Dining, Riverfront Plans

The St. Charles Planning & Development Committee convened on May 17, 2023, to review ongoing projects, outdoor dining plans, and construction impacts in the downtown area. Major items included updates on the East Bank Enhancement Project, approval of Summer 2023 outdoor dining plans for First Street Plaza East and West, and discussions about mitigating construction effects on businesses and pedestrian access.

East Bank Enhancement Project Update

Project Overview

The East Bank Enhancement Project aims to revitalize a quarter-mile stretch of the St. Charles riverfront, spanning from Illinois Street to the Piano Factory bridge. Key goals include:

• Improving aesthetics along deteriorating concrete sections.

• Enhancing pedestrian and bike access, including safer, less congested paths.

• Creating multi-functional spaces with viewing platforms, kayak and paddleboard access, and recreational areas.

Funding and Timeline

• Financial Backing: River Corridor organization is funding the concept plan.

• Planning: Two detailed concepts with preliminary cost estimates are expected by September 1st, 2023.

• Implementation: The project will be executed segment-by-segment, prioritizing connectivity and long-term traffic mitigation downtown.

Summer 2023 Outdoor Dining Plans

First Street Plaza East

• Approval: Committee approved the outdoor dining plan.

• Permit Fee: Waived for the first 100 days.

• Monitoring: Staff will provide a progress report before the next 100-day period.

• Rationale: Construction disruption reduces customer access, noise and dust affect business operations, and available dining space decreased by 700 sq ft this year.

First Street Plaza West

• Approval: Mirrored East Plaza plans.

• Permit Fee: Waived for the first 100 days.

• Monitoring: Progress report required prior to the next period.

Committee Discussion

• Supporters emphasized economic benefits, community engagement, and continuity for local businesses.

• Concerns included noise, dust, limited access, and the temporary nature of pandemic-era dining policies.

• Staff committed to working with the Downtown Business Alliance and local businesses on signage, safety, and long-term outdoor dining policies.

Construction Impact and Public Access

• Monthly Meetings: Staff to meet with First Street businesses to address ongoing concerns.

• Council Updates: Regular updates on construction impact, particularly evening and Saturday work.

• Pedestrian Access Proposal: Public comment suggested converting one westbound lane of Illinois Street (First to Riverside) into a temporary pedestrian walkway to improve safety and access during construction.

• Web Updates: Public Works department to maintain a dedicated project status page for residents and visitors.

Key Takeaways

1. East Bank Enhancement Project continues to move forward, improving the riverfront for both recreation and connectivity.

2. Summer 2023 outdoor dining plans approved for both East and West plazas, with permit fee waivers for initial 100 days to support local businesses.

3. Construction mitigation measures include staff communication, signage, monthly updates, and creative pedestrian solutions.

4. Committee emphasizes developing permanent outdoor dining policies for space usage, allocation, and pricing.

   
   

Final Thoughts

The May 17 meeting highlights St. Charles’ dedication to balancing downtown revitalization, business support, and pedestrian-friendly planning. By approving outdoor dining plans and progressing with the East Bank Enhancement Project, the city demonstrates a commitment to creating vibrant public spaces, ensuring safe access, and fostering a thriving downtown experience, even amidst ongoing construction.