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Downtown addition spells out community values
The city has entered phase two of its latest effort to make downtown safer and more welcoming, rolling out on-brand amenities for Elgin’s cyclists.
The latest Crosswalk of Unity project additions include ELGIN- shaped bike racks, a bike repair station and an air pump installed at the Veterans Memorial Park expansion on Depot Street. The upgrades are designed to blend practical safety improvements with artistic elements that celebrate the city’s diversity, according to officials.
“Downtown is where our stories intersect — residents, visitors, businesses and cultural traditions — this project reflects that spirit,” Main Street Manager Kristina Alvarez said. “Our goal is to celebrate our welcoming, vibrant space that encourages people to slow down, explore and connect with one another.”
Funded by a $60,000 General Motors on Main Street grant awarded in April, the project wrapped its first phase earlier this year with an artistic crosswalk installation. Designs followed public input sessions and aimed to reinforce the downtown area as a place where people connect.
Alvarez said the project grew out of safety concerns near the busy playground expansion.
“I was getting complaints from some local businesses that when it’s full and people are parked here, kids were darting between the parks without really looking,” she said. “Our focus is pedestrian safety.”
Upcoming Phase 2 features
“Downtown is where our stories intersect.”
— Kristina Alvarez, Main Street manager include interpretive signage explaining the project’s story, pole banners designed to complement the artwork, solar-powered crosswalk buttons and sidewalk games intended to keep children near marked crossings.
The city is also working with Elgin Independent School District on a pedestrian safety campaign.
“It’s to hopefully slow people down and just try to keep kids safe and represent who Elgin is,” Alvarez said.
One of the most impactful pieces, officials said, will be the planned storytelling signage that ties the artwork and safety elements to Elgin’s values.
“The story behind the Crosswalk of Unity highlights how Elgin’s strength comes from the many voices, cultures and histories that shape our community,” Alvarez said. “It’s an opportunity to celebrate who we are as a community and to inspire people to see themselves as part of something bigger.”
Remaining Phase 2 elements are expected to be installed after the holidays.
