Planning begins for Lake Street updates

Planning will begin this year to replace critical infrastructure that is at the end of its life cycle along Lake Street from Harlem Avenue to Austin Boulevard. Actual construction would likely not occur until 2018.

The project also envisions new concrete and asphalt roadway surfaces, lighting and signal improvements, as well as sidewalks designed for increased walkability, curb and street crossing upgrades to better accommodate persons with disabilities, and improved signal timing to help keep traffic flowing smoothly, especially in the business districts between Harlem and Euclid avenues.

Streetscape enhancements also will be considered, including high-quality street furniture, enhanced street and pedestrian lighting, and informational wayfinding signs for visitors. In addition, decorative sidewalk and crosswalk materials could be used to highlight major intersections and enhance pedestrian safety at Maple Avenue, Marion Street, Forest Avenue, Kenilworth Avenue and Oak Park Avenue.

Construction would be completed in phases to allow the Village to first replace and refurbish old water and sewer lines at various locations, including between Grove and Euclid avenues, as well as new water mains and service lines to buildings between Oak Park and Euclid avenues.

Officials say these projects ultimately would improve traffic circulation and capacity, enhance pedestrian linkage between retail districts, replace the aging roadway and utilities, promote private investment and economic development, and strengthen Lake Street’s role as the community’s central tourism and retail corridor.

For more information about the project, visit www.oak-park.us/lakestreetimprovements.