Rockford Sun

Whitman Street in Rockford is scheduled to reopen to traffic on Monday, October 27 at noon following a two-year reconstruction project. The work, which spanned from Avon Street to Church Street, represents the largest undertaking funded by the City’s 1% Infrastructure Sales Tax.

The project included several improvements. The road was converted from four lanes to three in an effort to calm traffic and increase safety. A new five-foot separated sidewalk was added on the north side of Whitman Street. The Mel B. Anderson Recreational Path was extended from Talcott-Page Park to Church Street, with plans for future connection to the Rock River Recreational Path through the Activate Church & Main project.

Other enhancements involved installing a single-lane roundabout at Whitman Street and Ridge Avenue, as well as upgrades to sanitary sewer, water main, and storm sewer systems. Lead service pipes were replaced and landscaping features were added at the neighborhood entrance. The city also improved sight distance west of Ridge Avenue by reducing sharp curves and upgraded railroad crossings and surfaces. Additionally, blight reduction efforts included removing a dilapidated property at Ridge and Whitman.

The construction cost nearly $10 million and was managed and inspected internally by city staff. According to the City of Rockford, the project was completed on time and within budget.

In a statement, the City said: "The City extends its sincere appreciation to our Public Works staff, partners at FRSA and the Rockford Park District, design consultant IMEG, water engineer Fehr Graham and contractor NTRAK for their exceptional work and collaboration."

Minor finishing work will continue after reopening, which may require short-term lane closures.