A much-needed makeover is coming to a very busy street in a Western Illinois city.

The City of Rock Island announced that they have received a federal RAISE grant for $22.7 million. The RAISE grant (Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity) will be used for the redesign and reconstruction of 11th Street from 31st Avenue to Blackhawk Road, officials said in a social media announcement.

City officials say that it took many years to get this grant. They did four grant submissions and collaborated with city staff and state and federal officials to finally get this done.

The project on 11th Street will create more pedestrian space, and a turning lane, and improve other aspects of the road. These are some of the improvements the City listed in its release:
  • Provide ADA-compliant sidewalks throughout the corridor, improving access and equity.
  • Add pedestrian connections between 11th Street and 9th Street, which is home to schools, community facilities, and residences.
  • Implement a “road diet” to improve safety and calm traffic. A three-lane configuration has proven to increase safety for pedestrians, bicyclists, and vehicular traffic while maintaining traffic efficiency.
  • Add a bidirectional center turn lane and other improvements to facilitate economic opportunity and private investment.
  • Include green infrastructure and stormwater improvements to improve sustainability.

KWQC reports that the project’s bidding process is expected to open by the end of 2026. Construction will begin shortly after.

Rock Island city officials say the total estimated cost of the project is $28.5 million, with $22.7 million from the RAISE grant. $2.5 million will come from the Illinois Department of Transportation and $3.2 million from the City of Rock Island.

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