The City of Pekin this week is completing an installation of decorative crosswalks along Court Street in Downtown Pekin.

 "We want everyone to feel welcome and safe when walking downtown," said City Manager Tony Carson. "The goal of the crosswalks installation, and the previous bike rack and bench initiatives, is to ensure visitors and residents alike have an opportunity to experience downtown whether by car, bike, or on foot. This project is part of our downtown revitalization strategy and our overall efforts to beautify Pekin."

The crosswalks, which enhance safe crossing for businesses and visitors, will be applied at each intersection along Court Street between 2nd and 6th Streets. Installation began on July 16 and crews have been working from 7 pm until 6:30 am to complete the project without disrupting business or inconveniencing traffic. Paveways Systems, Inc. is providing the labor and material using an innovative new approach that allows for application on older asphalt with minimal traffic disruption. Pekin is the first city in Illinois to use a Paveway Solution. 

"Research shows improved pedestrian and bicycling infrastructure investments downtown results in economic growth. We are excited to see the City of Pekin increasing this infrastructure as it is a tangible investment in the city and in the safety of citizens," said Katy Shackelford, City Planner. Along with bike racks, picnic tables, and benches that were installed in June, the crosswalks were identified as a priority for improving downtown 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 Tax Increment Financing.