12/9/25

The City plans to replace the Kimball Street bridge in 2028.  A preliminary plan is supposed to be approved this year.  The City and its contractors have requested the community’s feedback BY DECEMBER 12.  Here is the link to the info that was presented at the November 13 public meeting: https://www.cityofelginbridgeprojects.org/resources.html.  

The City needs your input to help make the new Kimball bridge serve our community and the riverfront. Please email the City’s Project Outreach Liaison, Jordan Rogalski at jrogalski@metrostratgroup.com by Friday, December 12th to make your voice heard! Please cc info@nenaofelgin.org so we can track your responses.

For your consideration:

1. The bridge is being significantly widened to accommodate an additional right turn lane, mixed pedestrian on both sides, and a middle barrier. Show your support for improved pedestrian access! Do you want to see protected bike lanes? Do we need an additional right-turn-only lane?
2. The “look” or design of the bridge was not yet available.  Let the City know if you think having an attractive entryway is important. 
3. A combined pedestrian and bike trail underpass is included. Finally, the City will link the bike trail under the bridge. This is something to celebrate–let the City know if it’s important to you.
4. Pedestrian and bike safety measures are included, but are they sufficient? The current design does not include a street-level pedestrian crosswalk over Kimball St to/from the library property. People cross here every day and one pedestrian has been killed. Human behavior tells us that many walkers will avoid the underpass if it’s faster to cross at street level. Also, does a double-right turn at Route 31 improve pedestrian safety?

The City’s website (link above) contains all of the info and plans presented at the Nov. 13 meeting. 

THANK YOU!

NENA Board of Directors

P.S. You are invited to RiverLife Elgin’s Winter Gathering where you’ll have an opportunity to share your input on Kimball St bridge design (and have a cup of hot cocoa!).  More info: RiverLife Winter Gathering