CHICAGO — Lawmakers say $225,000 from the Illinois Department of Transportation to improve North Avenue in Oak Park and Austin may bring improved safety, livability and economic development to the area.
The award was announced Wednesday by Senator Don Harmon (D-Oak Park), Rep. Camille Lilly (D-Chicago) and Ald. Deborah Graham (29th).
The grant will improve transportation and the road along North Avenue between Oak Park and Central Avenues in partnership with the City of Chicago and Village of Oak Park, according to a statement.
“This roadway is the heart of an important business district and is vital to many of the neighborhoods that I represent from Chicago to the western suburbs. This grant will enhance safety, improve livability and promote economic development," Harmon said in a statement.
Similar projects in other areas have led to safety improvements like enhanced lighting, larger medians and crosswalks and beautification.
The money will also be used to study transportation along Chicago Avenue and Madison Street along the same stretch.
Most of the $225,000 comes from state planning and research funds and local matching dollars, according to the release.
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