The second and surviving half of Rock Island's downtown plaza may soon be removed, and returned to being a street. Monday night, the city council approved an application to the state for a grant to help pay for the project.
Urban planner, Brandy Howe, says the possible change in the block of 2nd Avenue between 18th and 19th streets, was included in the updated plan for downtown adopted last year. Many city residents and businesses supported the change to something called a "living street."
The term "living street" comes from a Dutch word "woonerf."
The deadline to apply for the state grant of up to 2 million dollars is next month, and money could be awarded in the fall. Rock Island would have to contribute 20 per cent.
The Great River Plaza was completed in 1978, and the western half - 2nd Avenue from 17th to 18th streets - re-opened to vehicles in 2003.
