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The City of Pekin this week completed a street furniture installation project that brings 12 new benches, 11 new bike racks, and 4 new picnic tables to the downtown area.

"We're working to make Pekin a more livable city," said City Manager Tony Carson. "In addition to installing new crosswalks later this summer on Court Street, the new street furniture will give residents and visitors an opportunity to safely and comfortably enjoy Pekin’s downtown businesses and attractions."

The bicycle racks, benches, and picnic tables were placed in areas with the most pedestrian traffic, identified with community input and upon requests from area businesses and organizations. The project was approved by City Council on May 8 and was financed through the Central Business District TIF.

"We are working diligently to build a comprehensive downtown revitalization strategy, and street furniture is an integral piece of that," said Katy Shackelford, City Planner.