The retail corridor on Skokie’s Main Street is set for an upgrade. Trustees are advancing a long-awaited plan to breathe new life into the area, which has seen years of decline. On July 20, the Village Board approved a $1.8 million contract with Copenhaver Construction, the lowest of four bids for street enhancements.
Revitalization Plans
This project will target improvements along Main Street, focusing on sidewalk and plaza upgrades on the south side near Karlov Avenue and Keystone Avenue, and the north side near Keystone and west of Crawford Avenue. Residents and visitors can expect new hardscaping, more space for art installations, additional planters, landscaping, and expanded curb and crosswalks.
Officials will also address drainage, regrading sections of the site, and installing new irrigation and electrical systems for lighting. The village will fund these enhancements with a $600,000 grant from the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity alongside the Capital Improvement Project budget.
Unanimous Approval
The Skokie Village Board’s unanimous approval on July 20 allows the $1.8 million in streetscape upgrades to progress. Trustee Lisa Levy, a strong advocate for Main Street’s revival, expressed her gratitude, highlighting the area’s potential after years of neglect.
“I wish I was there so you could see how moved and teary-eyed I am that Main Street is getting this attention,” Levy said.
Levy looks forward to the ongoing revitalization in Skokie, aiming for a thriving business community. Trustee Keith Robinson echoed Levy’s enthusiasm, acknowledging the board’s vision and effort in starting the project.
Project Plans and Community Concerns
In 2023 and 2024, landscape designer MKSK Inc. was consulted for a study and recommendations on the corridor improvements from Crawford to Tripp Avenues. As per Village Manager John Lockerby, the initial stages focus on updates south of Karlov Avenue and north of Keystone.
The plan involves phased execution to minimize business interruptions, given the necessary agreements with current property owners. Some concerns arose regarding the impact on businesses; Mayor Ann Tennes emphasized the importance of community support for local businesses during construction.
“There’s a collective responsibility that we all share,” Mayor Tennes stated.
Public Feedback and Response
During the July 20 meeting, resident Ken Marley expressed unease about public funding on private property, urging more transparency in communication. Lockerby clarified the village’s intent to acquire and redevelop storefronts in the targeted area, aiming to create communal spaces.
The approval allows for moving forward with construction on two blocks, although an official start date is pending. The redevelopment is expected to span over 20 years to encompass the acquisition and renovation of numerous properties, aiming for an eventual revitalized Main Street.
Officials remain hopeful that the initiative will encourage residents to engage with the area, reversing the trend of neglect.