DECATUR, Ill. (WCIA) — Thanks to an incoming federal grant, a Decatur street is getting a facelift.
Initially announced in 2023, the funding has recently been secured. The grant was originally put forth by the Biden administration, but when President Trump entered office, the funds were temporarily halted.
This week, however, the U.S. Department of Transportation revealed almost $500 million in funding for new initiatives, which includes close to $10 million for Jasper street improvements.
Running between Pershing and Lake Shore drive, three and a half miles of Jasper Street will be updated.
The project will improve traffic and lighting. It will also add new neighborhood amenities, like solar powered benches and transit shelters.
“We engaged the community significantly since it’s their street and neighborhood. Residents and business owners along the corridor participated in the planning process to share their vision for the street,” stated Ryan Huffer, Decatur’s Communication Coordinator.
He also said that the roadmap has already been approved. The next step is meeting with Public Works to get the ball rolling.
However, Huffer does not see construction starting until next year.
