The city of East Moline invites community members to attend an open house to view plans and meet the team behind the Greater Downtown East Moline Revitalization Project.
The open-house event is from 4 to 6 p.m. Sept. 12, Thursday, at the Rust Belt Common Area at 533 12th Avenue.
Tim Kammler is the director of engineering for the city of East Moline. He says the meeting covers the first component of the revitalization project, including the 12th Avenue streetscaping improvements between 1st and 7th Street and 7th Street railroad crossing.
"We're just trying to continue to refine the designs, the elements that are making up this project. So we know we're going to streetscape 12th Avenue," Kammler said in a phone interview with WVIK. "We know we're going to have a new roadway, but we're asking for continued input on just how does that look and feel? What are the components that will make that unique? And again, just trying to hear people's comments, concerns, and certainly their kudos."
Kammler says the project aims to enhance connectivity between the Main Street Downtown District and the Rust Belt District.
He mentions the project plans for wider sidewalks, allowing strollers and pets to maneuver more easily, safety pedestrian arms at the railroad crossing and escape boxes.
The funding comes from the federal Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity or RAISE grant totaling $23.7 million.
"We essentially have some fantastic new development going in different places, but they're siloed. They're essentially separated by, in this case, railroad tracks or lack of traffic," Kammler said. "And so we hope to use this grant and this funding to improve those connections, not just for vehicles, but for all folks, for pedestrians, cyclists, people that are walking a dog, and have a safe, accessible environment in doing so."
The plan is for the first component of the revitalization plan to open for bids this January.
East Moline Mayor Reggie Freeman says the rust belt area has brought new energy
into the greater East Moline downtown.
“These proposed improvements will transform the Rust Belt area into a safer, more connected community asset, fostering economic growth and enhancing the overall quality of life for everyone in East Moline. We encourage all residents to attend this meeting and share their thoughts on how we can make the Rust Belt area even better," Mayor Freeman said in a press release sent to WVIK.
Residents can sign up for updates, share comments and learn more by visiting their website.
