Bike Plan, Sanitary Upgrades Get Approval

On September 27, 2023, the St. Charles Government Services Committee held a meeting to address key infrastructure projects, safety initiatives, and ongoing construction updates. The meeting included approval of the Bike and Pedestrian Plan, adoption of the Complete Streets Policy, awarding the Sanitary Lining Program bid, and progress updates on the First Street Plaza project.

Bike and Pedestrian Plan & Complete Streets Policy Approved

The committee approved a resolution adopting the Bike and Pedestrian Plan along with the St. Charles Complete Streets Policy.

• The plan serves as a strategic roadmap for bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure.

• Full implementation is a long-term project, projected to take 10–20 years.

• Individual projects will require detailed engineering studies and community engagement.

• The Complete Streets policy reinforces the city's commitment to roadways that safely accommodate all users, considering land use and community context.

Action Items:

• Staff to develop detailed cost and implementation plans, providing “chunked” options for different funding levels.

• Engineering department to conduct further crosswalk safety studies at key intersections.

• Consider community education programs to encourage shared road behavior among drivers and cyclists.

• Maintain updates on a dedicated website page to track progress on Bike and Pedestrian Plan implementation.

Sanitary Lining Program Bid Awarded

The committee approved awarding the bid for the Sanitary Lining Program to National Power R.

• The program aims to maintain and rehabilitate sanitary sewer infrastructure efficiently.

• Discussion focused on the process and selected bidder, ensuring transparency and long-term reliability.

First Street Plaza Construction Update

A detailed presentation provided updates on the First Street Plaza project, highlighting significant unforeseen challenges:

• Complex underground utility conflicts caused delays.

• Securing the IDOT permit for right-of-way work remains ongoing.

• Budget management and public access remain key discussion points.

The city continues diligent efforts to resolve permit and construction issues, aiming for smooth project completion.

Funding and Community Considerations

• Recent sales tax increase generates $4.2–4.4 million, primarily restoring the standard street replacement cycle rather than funding new standalone infrastructure.

• Council members emphasized the need for granular cost estimations and measurable goals for Bike and Pedestrian initiatives.

• Community engagement and safety education are critical to fostering safer road sharing between drivers and cyclists.

Conclusion

The September 27 meeting reflects St. Charles’ commitment to long-term infrastructure planning, safety, and community engagement. Approval of the Bike and Pedestrian Plan and Complete Streets Policy demonstrates forward-looking urban planning, while the Sanitary Lining Program and First Street Plaza updates show continued dedication to maintaining reliable city infrastructure.

Through strategic planning, community education, and proactive project management, the city aims to balance modernization, safety, and resident needs effectively over the coming years.

FAQs

What is the St. Charles Bike and Pedestrian Plan?

It’s a 10–20 year roadmap for bike and pedestrian infrastructure, paired with a Complete Streets policy to make roads safer for all users.

What action items followed the plan’s approval?

Staff will create phased cost plans, study crosswalk safety, engage the community, and track updates on a dedicated webpage.

What is the Sanitary Lining Program?

A program to maintain and rehabilitate sanitary sewer infrastructure, with the 2023 bid awarded to National Power R.

Why is the First Street Plaza project delayed?

Delays stem from complex underground utility conflicts and pending IDOT right-of-way permit approval.

How will the sales tax increase impact projects?

The $4.2–4.4M annual revenue will restore standard street replacement cycles, not fund new standalone infrastructure.