Edwardsville residents and visitors will soon have a reconstructed North Main Street and a new park to enjoy this fall.
Goshen Commons will serve as a hub for parks and recreation activities, the Land of Goshen Community Market, public gatherings and special events. Water main replacement and streetscape construction have been underway for seven months. The market was held at City Park this year while construction continued. Groundbreaking for Goshen Commons was held April 20.
"Despite some weather challenges, including periods of rain and excessive heat, this project is on track," said James Arnold, director of economic and community development for the city, in an email. "You could take a look at what’s planned for the park at our City Project page for Goshen Commons to get an idea of what all will be included when it’s finished: www.cityofedwardsville.com/cityprojects."
As for the completion date, Arnold said weather and other issues can affect the project's finish, but officials are aiming for October.
"That’s not to say that there won’t be a few remaining items to be addressed, but we’re hoping to have it open to the public that month," he said.
No major complications have occurred during construction, he said, and projects around St. Louis Street should not affect construction of Goshen Commons.
Regarding parking for Goshen Commons, Arnold said there are no specifically designated lots for the park, but there is on-street parking in the area and nearby public lots.
"With its proximity to the heart of downtown, near shared use paths, neighborhoods, and businesses, it’s expected to be a very walkable, bikeable location," he said.
Goshen Commons will repurpose one block of St. Louis Street and the adjacent courtyard into a pedestrian-friendly public park. The park will be open daily and available for special events. Plans call for green space with trees and plantings, an expansive gathering area, walkways, seating areas, shade structures, festoon-style lighting, a video screen, restrooms and game tables. Vehicle access to the area was closed in January ahead of the project and to accommodate the ongoing North Main Street water main replacement and streetscape construction.
The Edwardsville City Council approved a $3.95 million bid from S.M. Wilson on March 16 to build the park. Funding includes a $2 million grant secured by state Rep. Katie Stuart through the Illinois Department of Natural Resources to support downtown economic vitality. The Edwardsville Enhancement Fund will pay the remaining cost.