Lake County Gazette

As part of the City’s ongoing commitment to maintaining and enhancing the vibrancy, distinctiveness, and functionality of the Central Business District, improvements to the block of Bank Lane just north of Deerpath are moving forward in coordination with the Deerpath Streetscape Improvements. This work will implement the first phase of the Bank Lane Pedestrian Corridor Enhancement Plan. The plan was developed based on a recommendation in the City's Comprehensive Land Use Plan, which was recently approved by the City Council.

The Bank Lane Pedestrian Corridor Enhancement Plan was developed through a public process with key goals in mind:

- Maintaining the distinctiveness and unique character of Bank Lane.

- Creating a "convertible street" that can meet daytime service needs of businesses as well as serve as a safe and welcoming space for special events and for dining and gathering during evenings and weekends seasonally.

- Recognizing the different character and function of each block of Bank Lane as it extends from Wisconsin Avenue on the north to Vine Avenue on the south.

- Addressing aging infrastructure needs thoughtfully and coordinatedly to minimize disruption duration to businesses and residents.

Phased Implementation & Next Steps:

The enhancements along Bank Lane will be implemented in phases as opportunities arise to coordinate with other infrastructure projects and any redevelopment that may occur along Bank Lane in the future.

Proceeding with enhancements to the block of Bank Lane between Deerpath and Southgate as the first phase is based on several factors:

- This area will be impacted by the Deerpath Streetscape Improvement Project, serving as a staging and construction access area. It is efficient and cost- effective to move directly into construction of enhancements on this block and avoid multi-year impacts on businesses and pedestrians in the immediate area.

- Consistency in materials and some design elements will carry around the corner from Deerpath onto this block of Bank Lane.

- Enhancements will formalize seasonal gathering and seating areas while prioritizing pedestrian safety. The improvements are designed to accommodate closure of this block for special events and outdoor dining, enhancing its role as a community gathering space.

Tentative Timeline:

City staff is working with design and engineering consultants focusing on material selection and utility investigations in preparation for seeking bids in April. Once bids are received, the project is expected to be presented to the City Council for consideration in May, pending Council approval, construction could begin as early as mid-June. The project is planned to be completed at the same time as the Deerpath Streetscape Project at end of October.

Continuing the City’s tradition of thoughtful planning, phased implementation of the Bank Lane Pedestrian Corridor Enhancement Plan will build upon strengths of Central Business District elevating Bank Lane as pedestrian- friendly business corridor.

Stay tuned for project updates at cityoflakeforest.com/BankLane.