City Approves Street, Safety, and Water Upgrades

The St. Charles Government Services Committee convened on December 3, 2024, addressing several key infrastructure initiatives, safety improvements, and city operations. From pedestrian crossings and street resurfacing to water facility upgrades, the committee approved multiple projects while responding to technical challenges like a website glitch affecting meeting agendas.

Website Glitch Prompts IT Investigation

Early in the meeting, members discussed a glitch in the city’s new website:

• One of three links to the meeting agenda displayed an outdated version.

• Staff confirmed the correct agenda was being followed during the meeting.

• The IT department will investigate and resolve the issue to ensure accurate public access.

This issue highlights the importance of technology reliability and transparency in local governance.

Illinois Street Midblock Crossing for Pedestrian Safety

A key initiative discussed was the Illinois Street Midblock Crossing Concept Plan:

• Project aims to improve pedestrian safety near the Bob Leonard walk.

• Features include a pedestrian refuge island, a roadway diet reducing lanes, buffered bike lanes, and bump-outs.

• Civil Tech engineering conducted traffic and pedestrian counts, as well as sight distance studies.

• Final design is expected early next year, with construction in the following fiscal year.

Committee members praised the project, noting its critical role in enhancing downtown pedestrian safety.

Prairie Street Resurfacing Project Secures Funding

The committee approved a joint funding agreement for Prairie Street resurfacing:

• $500,000 grant from the Surface Transportation Program covers 75% of construction costs.

• Work aligns with a recent water main project, ensuring long-term durability.

• Full resurfacing, including milling and new asphalt, is planned for next summer (after May 1st).

This investment reflects the city’s commitment to maintaining safe, reliable roadways for residents.

Westside Water Reclamation Facility Exhaust Fan Replacement

To address aging equipment, the committee approved replacement of 12 large exhaust fans at the Westside Water Reclamation Facility:

• Fans remove moisture from clarifiers and digesters to prevent equipment deterioration.

• The project includes electrical upgrades to comply with current codes.

• Bid awarded to Beiner Services, chosen for references and cost-effectiveness.

• New fans expected lifespan: 5–8 years; warranty: 10 years.

This upgrade ensures continued operational efficiency and compliance with safety standards.

East Side Lift Station Fine Screen Part Purchase

A resolution was passed to waive formal bidding and purchase a fine screen part for the East Side Lift Station:

• Rehab approach saves significant costs compared to full unit replacement ($600,000).

• Fine screen part is sole-source, requiring a bid waiver.

• Project is under budget due to cost savings in other line items.

• Expected lifespan of rehabbed unit: 10–14 years.

The initiative demonstrates cost-effective maintenance strategies for essential water infrastructure.

Committee Comments and Public Works Recognition

During final discussions, members:

• Asked clarifying questions about the Omnibus vote process.

• Praised Public Works’ “Fill the Gap” program, highlighting its long-term importance for city infrastructure.

The meeting concluded with all projects approved and a commitment to ongoing public safety and infrastructure improvements.

Conclusion

The December 3, 2024, Government Services Committee Meeting reflects St. Charles’ ongoing dedication to public safety, infrastructure modernization, and fiscal responsibility. From pedestrian safety enhancements to essential water facility upgrades, the city continues to prioritize efficient project implementation while addressing operational challenges.

FAQs

What was the focus of the December 3, 2024 meeting?

The meeting focused on pedestrian safety projects, road resurfacing, water facility upgrades, and addressing a city website agenda glitch.

What safety improvements were approved?

The Illinois Street Midblock Crossing plan was advanced, featuring a pedestrian refuge island, bike lanes, and lane reductions to improve safety.

How is Prairie Street resurfacing being funded?

The project will be funded through a $500,000 federal grant covering 75% of costs, with full resurfacing scheduled for summer 2025.

What upgrades were approved for the water facilities?

The city approved exhaust fan replacements at the Westside Water Reclamation Facility and purchased a fine screen part for the East Side Lift Station.

How did the city respond to the website glitch?

Staff confirmed the correct agenda was followed, and IT will investigate the glitch to ensure accurate and reliable public access.