Within the next few days, Kewaneeans should see a survey crew working in their downtown.
The survey will be the first step in an update of a five-block area in the downtown that will take almost two years to complete.
The city has received a $3 million state grant to pay for the project, and will put up more than $300,000 in city funds as well.
The City Council Monday night hired Hutchison Engineering to plan and design the project, and heard a report from Shane Larson, Hutchison’s manager for the Kewanee project.
Councilman Chris Colomer asked Larson what’s next, and Larson replied that the survey crew should be starting its work in the next few days. The survey is needed so that detailed plans can be made for any infrastructure improvements in the area.
“We’re ready to get started.” Larson said. “We’re excited.”
It will be up to the people of Kewanee to decide what improvements they want. Larson said citizens will have the opportunity to offer ideas and suggestions to the engineers.
“We’re used to working around people’s needs and desires,” Larson said.
He said next year will be devoted to determining what Kewaneeans want to do to improve their downtown, and drawing up detailed plans for the work.
Actual construction should start in 2025, Larson said.
He said Hutchison Engineering has carried out similar projects in a number of Illinois communities, one of which is Aledo.
Aledo has received several state grants for improvements, Larson said, and he added that successfully carrying out a grant-funded program can lead to the city getting more state funds in the future.
“You do a project, they’re more likely to give you more money,” he said.
Also Monday, the council approved a rezoning and special use permit for a vehicle storage yard on a vacant lot at 814 W. Second St.
Property owner Tina Chamberlain of rural Kewanee applied for the rezoning and permit.
The permit, was approved by the Planning Commission, and Mayor Gary Moore pointed out that under the permit, only operable vehicles can be stored there.
“I don’t want to see this turn into a salvage yard,” the mayor said. “You have to be mindful of your neighbors.”
