City of Galesburg receives a grant through the Rebuild Illinois Downtowns and Main Streets Capital Program as part of a $106 million statewide investment.
The City of Galesburg is pleased to announce that it has been selected to receive a $2,082,500 grant for improvements to Parking Lot H downtown, as well as the adjoining Simmons Street. As part of the Rebuild Illinois (RBI) Downtowns and Main Streets Capital program, Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) awarded $106 million in capital grants to 50 commercial corridors and main streets throughout Illinois, which represents the largest-ever RBI investment focused on community revitalization.
“The City is thrilled to be selected for a project which renovates one of the free downtown parking lots, as well as enhances the walkability of downtown with new sidewalks and lighting,” said Wayne Carl, Interim City Manager.
The community revitalization project will resurface and landscape Parking Lot H, as well as install lighting upgrades and add a covered area that can be used for events or covered parking. The street, sidewalk, and curbing on Simmons Street, between Prairie Street and Kellogg Street, will also be reconstructed, and decorative lighting and landscaping will be added along the street. The total estimated cost for the project is $2.45 million, and 85% will be paid for with the $2,082,500 in grant funding received. The remaining $367,500 will be paid for by city funds. When completed, the downtown will be more accessible through improved parking and walking options, making it easier for citizens and visitors to shop, work, and attend events in downtown Galesburg. Incorporating green space into the design improves the aesthetics and reduces our environmental footprint.
“This project is a component of the long-term plan for enhancing downtown Galesburg and was included in the Design Development of Downtown Public Spaces Plan, which the City and Downtown Council completed in 2016,” said Carl. “The plan covers the entire downtown area, and the city has previously implemented other components, including the development of Park Plaza and adjacent parking lot. Further implementing this planned development through this grant project is a wonderful opportunity for Galesburg.”
The RBI Downtowns and Main Streets Capital Program is designed to support local commercial corridors, with concentrations of businesses that experienced difficulties during the pandemic due to declining foot traffic, tourism, and business from downtown offices. The program drives investment in infrastructure and public amenities that continue to fuel economic activity as more Illinoisans visit their local town centers.
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