Lake County Gazette

Waukegan City Council will vote on Oct. 2 to match a federal grant for a feasibility study aimed at revitalizing the Sheridan/IL-137 Corridor. The project aims to improve the functionality and connectivity of the six-mile-long corridor for commuters.

The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) awarded Waukegan and North Chicago $400,000 in federal planning funds through the Statewide Planning and Research (SPR) Program. However, a $100,000 local match is required in order to receive the funds.

The feasibility study, estimated to cost $1.15 million, will include various components such as a traffic and safety analysis, a traffic operations analysis, an environmental screening, identification of comprehensive street design options, and a bicycle and pedestrian safety analysis.

Funding from the USDOT Reconnecting Communities and Neighborhoods Program Community Planning Grant will enable the cities to complete Phase II of the project. This phase will refine project alternatives, conduct a traffic and safety analysis, conduct an initial environmental screening, and prepare for the preliminary engineering and environmental process phase.

Revitalizing the Sheridan/IL-137 Corridor is expected to have a positive impact on the community by improving transportation infrastructure and creating a safer environment for pedestrians and cyclists. The feasibility study will provide valuable insights and recommendations for the project's future development.