Jamie Munks
The State Journal-Register
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Aldermen also passed two ordinances related to the Stanford Avenue extension project, after hearing a presentation on the proposed work from Public Works Director Mark Mahoney, who said the connection will create “a continuous east-west link across the south side of the city,” improve emergency vehicle access and encourage economic development.
Ward 7 Ald. Joe McMenamin previously had questioned whether funding for the project could have been scaled back and devoted to other major corridors in Springfield that are in need of attention. Mahoney, in his presentation to the council, expressed concern about the city abandoning the project, and said doing so could risk losing Surface Transportation Urban grant funds that have been awarded for it.
After Tuesday’s meeting, McMenamin said the Stanford Avenue extension was probably too complicated to pull back on now. “I think the project is too far along,” McMenamin said.
Construction of the two-thirds of a mile extension between Fox Bridge Road and Taylor Avenue is expected to begin soon and take two years. Federal funds will pay $2.9 million of the estimated $5.2 million cost, with the city covering $2.3 million, according to figures released by a local transportation planning committee.
The work will include a three-lane road, sidewalks and a bike path along the north side of the road that would connect to the Lost Bridge Trail recreation path between Springfield and Rochester.
The council’s approval Tuesday authorized the purchase of a real estate interest for 2601 Taylor Ave., for up to $125,000, and will notify the Illinois Department of Transportation that motor fuel tax funds will be used for the purchase.
McMenamin contended that Stevenson Drive, with a jog on Fifth and Sixth streets, is an existing east-west corridor, as well as Interstate 72, as population “shifts south.”
McMenamin listed a number of corridors that he sees as in need of attention: Peoria Road, East Cook Street, East Ash Street, South Grand Avenue East and Chatham Road among them.
Joe McMenamin for Ward 7 