During a recent government meeting, council members engaged in a robust discussion regarding the need for a comprehensive road assessment and planning strategy. Council member Christie proposed the idea of reinstating a paper-based assessment system to evaluate the current state of the city’s roads, emphasizing the importance of developing a 2 to 3-year plan. This plan would provide clear targets for the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) and facilitate timely scheduling and bidding processes for road repairs.

The council acknowledged that the last significant assessment was conducted in 2017, and many roads have since deteriorated further without proper updates to their condition. Members expressed a consensus on the necessity of refreshing this data to better inform future decisions. Christie noted that the cost of this assessment would need to be clarified, as previous estimates were around $25,000.

Council member Bateman raised concerns about the rushed timeline for voting on proposed road projects, stating that he received targets only a week prior to the meeting. He advocated for additional options and a more thorough discussion to ensure that the most heavily traveled and deteriorating roads, particularly those impacted by heavy truck traffic, are prioritized. Bateman highlighted the need for engineering solutions to extend the lifespan of repairs, especially in areas like the downtown square, which is experiencing growth but suffers from poor road conditions.

Another council member, Reimer, criticized the reliance on external assessments for decision-making, suggesting that past practices involving direct engagement with department heads led to better outcomes. He argued for a return to a more hands-on approach, where council members could leverage their experiences to make informed decisions about road maintenance.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to table the current proposals for further consideration, allowing council members to gather more input from constituents and explore additional options for road repairs. The urgency of addressing the city's road conditions remains a priority, with members recognizing the need for a strategic and data-driven approach to infrastructure planning.