DeKALB – Construction for the roundabout at the intersection of Lucinda and Normal is set to begin this summer, with a contract approved for construction services at Monday’s City Council meeting.
ROUNDABOUT AT LUCINDA AND NORMAL
The roundabout project, primarily funded through a federal grant, aims to improve traffic flow and pedestrian safety. City Manager Bill Nicklas recommended the council approve the contract. The council unanimously voted to approve a $198,000 contract with Fehr Graham for construction services.
City Engineer Zac Gill gave the City Council a timeline for road closures that will result from the construction.
“The full closure will go into place May 13,” Gill said. “It will be open by the time the students return.”
While construction is in progress, there will be a detour route with a full closure at the intersection.
CONSTRUCTION BENEATH ANNIE GLIDDEN OVERPASS
The council unanimously approved a $206,050.25 contract with Landmark Contractors Inc. for pavement reconstruction beneath the south Annie Glidden Road Overpass. This project follows last year’s successful northern overpass project and aims to complete the roadways before NIU students return for the fall semester.
Additionally, the city allocated $252,000 to Fehr Graham for engineering services in the 2025 General Street Maintenance Program, which has a total budget of $4.5 million.
FIREFIGHTER TURNOUT GEAR
The council unanimously approved funding for 45 new firefighting suits totaling $151,595. The funding will replace aging turnout gear and supply new firefighters with necessary protective equipment. Of the cost, $145,000 will come from the FY2025 Ground Emergency Medical Funding budget and $6,695 will come from the Fire Department Operations Budget.
“You guys are keeping us safe all the time, and this is the least we can do to get as much safety in your court as well,” Alderwoman Barb Larson said before voting on the matter.
CORN FEST 2025
The council finalized agreements for this year’s Corn Fest, including street closures and a liquor license approval. The annual festival will occur downtown, with Illinois Route 38 closed between First Street and Fourth Street from Aug. 22 to Aug. 24.
The next DeKalb City Council meeting is scheduled for 6 p.m. on April 14 in the Dekalb Public Library.
