Kane County Reporter

Two pedestrian improvement projects are set to commence in downtown during the first week of June, aiming to enhance pedestrian and bicycle access. These projects will result in lane closures and altered traffic patterns on Main Street/IL 64 at the 1st Street Plaza north entrance, as well as on Illinois Street, just west of the Fox River. Coordination efforts will be made to minimize traffic disruptions.

The final phase of the 1st Street Plaza project is expected to start in early June and conclude by September 2025. This phase involves several enhancements for pedestrians: "A new crosswalk will be installed across Main Street to the plaza’s north entrance," according to project details. Adjustments will also be made to existing traffic signals, reducing wait times for pedestrians crossing the street. Modifications include changes to sidewalks at the plaza's north entrance and realignment of signal poles with new crosswalks.

Traffic along Main Street between 2nd Street/IL Rt. 31 and Riverside Avenue will face delays due to lane shifts, closures, and potential brief road shutdowns. Drivers should anticipate these changes as signs will alert them about shifting traffic patterns.

Another key initiative stems from the "2023 St. Charles Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan," which highlighted improvements needed at Illinois Street's crossing with the Fox River Trail as a priority. The work here is slated to begin on June 2 and continue for approximately three months, involving: "Creating a new pedestrian refuge island across Illinois Street." Additionally, lanes on Illinois Street will be reduced to accommodate dedicated bike lanes from Riverside Avenue to 1st Street.

During this period, expect delays on both the Illinois Street Bridge and from South 1st Street to Riverside Avenue due to temporary disruptions affecting sidewalks and entrances such as Fox Island Square.

For further information regarding these projects, visit their respective pages on the City website for detailed updates.