Board passes key measure to improve
downtown safety
Traffic signals to be added at US Route 34 at Harrison and Main
At its May 17 meeting, the Board unanimously approved a contract to improve pedestrian and motorized vehicle safety in Oswego?s downtown area. The project includes the construction of traffic signals on U.S. Route 34, at the intersections of Main and Harrison Streets.
Beginning in 2019, the Village completed traffic and pedestrian studies along Route 34 to ensure the improvements met Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) warrants and the Village hosted two public open houses to gather feedback on the project from residents and businesses.
The Village has implemented short-term remedies to assist with safety including the flashing crosswalk light for pedestrians, speed warning signs for vehicles and pavement markings. However, with more businesses and increased pedestrian traffic, along with additional vehicles using this main downtown corridor, a more complex plan is needed to address safety concerns.
?We first started planning for these critical safety improvements with the State in June of 2019,? said Village President Troy Parlier. ?Everything is finally coming together and we?re happy to be moving ahead with the contractor to complete the project, which will keep residents and visitors safe when traveling through our downtown.?
As part of the traffic signal construction, the $1.3 million project calls for the installation of an interconnect system to better manage traffic flow and timing for all traffic signals on US Route 34 between Illinois Route 31 and Illinois Route 25. The traffic signals will also be synced with the railroad signals to ensure there is adequate time for vehicles to clear the tracks as trains approach. Instead of loops in the pavement, the new signals will feature cameras with the ability to monitor traffic flow remotely. ?
Due to supply chain issues with traffic signal poles and other key materials, the work is expected to be completed by July 2023. More information on this project can be found by visiting Oswego?s Downtown Pedestrian Safety webpage: www.oswegoil.org/government/departments/public-works/downtown-pedestrian-safety.
Sign up for text notifications from the Village of Oswego?
Sign up for text or email alerts from the Village of Oswego and we'll send you seasonal reminders, news, and critical emergency information. To start receiving texts, update your contact information with us on our website.?
|
|
