Concrete and General Construction
General construction and concrete work for the West Underpass project is now substantially complete. Depressed curbs, sidewalk installation, and flatwork has been finished by the contractor and coordination with BNSF and Illinois Tollway construction crews along Burlington Avenue has been finalized. Illinois Tollway and BNSF construction work, including the installation of retaining walls, sidewalk, and BNSF embankment work west of the Underpass location, has been completed. Work also included re-establishment of the parking stalls and pavement along Burlington Avenue from Central Avenue west to the Park District parking lot.
Landscape Restoration
Landscape restoration is tentatively scheduled to begin the week of October 24, and will include final grading, topsoil, and the establishment of sod on site. Restoration is anticipated to take place at the West Underpass along the sidewalk running east to Central Avenue, and near the decommissioned Central Avenue at-grade crossing.
Crosswalk and Pedestrian Access
The enhancement of the existing crosswalk at Hillgrove Avenue is partially complete with the installation of re-aligned crosswalks and new depressed curb areas. Rapid Flashing Beacons (RRFB) on Hillgrove Avenue are currently on back order with other electrical items. Final installation dates are undetermined at this time. The centerline pedestrian crosswalk signage (similar to the signage at the East Underpass) is on order and is anticipated to be installed by the end of November.
Pedestrian enhancements for Burlington Avenue are anticipated to occur in 2023 and design coordination is currently ongoing with the Park District. Existing pedestrian access to Spring Rock Park may occur at the ADA accessible crosswalk, located at Central Avenue near the former at-grade pedestrian crossing location.
Decommissioning of Central Avenue At-Grade Crossing
The Central Avenue at-grade crossing was decommissioned in September, and the approaches and connections to the sidewalks on Burlington Avenue and Hillgrove Avenue were removed up to the BNSF ROW/Property line. The Village is awaiting information from the BNSF to complete the removal of the crossing gates and additional concrete work located between the tracks. An ETA from the BNSF for completion is not yet available.
Electrical and Lighting
Conduit and prep work for the lighting at the West Underpass was completed with the concrete work. Delivery of the lighting, security cameras, and RRFB system for Hillgrove Avenue is outstanding with a delivery and installation window not yet available.