THE JOURNAL & TOPICS NEWSPAPERS | WEDNESDAY, APRIL 30, 2008
Downtown Projects Continue
By the end of this summer, Des Plaines' downtown area is expected to be much more colorful and pleasing to shoppers, office workers and anyone else who strolls or drives through the area.
Last year, the improvement program was launched with the removal of numerous long-existing landscaping planters. This year, replacement planters will be installed with flowers and other plantings, a small park next to the library building developed, and new oval-shaped planters installed along a section of Miner Street.
The following is a listing of planned projects this year, the scope of work and pricetags:
* Phase 1 of downtown landscaping improvements completed last year. Work consisted of removing numerous existing planters in the central business district including along Ellinwood and Miner streets in preparation of replacement work this spring and summer. Total cost, $146,025.
* Phase 2 work calls for installation of new planter boxes, flowers and other plantings as well as replacement of landscaped wall around a section of the police station parking lot at Graceland Avenue and Miner Street. Total cost is $201,975.
* Development of "Enabling Garden" in small park setting immediately east of the library. Brick pavers will replace pea gravel surface, raised planter beds will be installed as well as low voltage lighting and horseshoe shaped area that includes seating and an overhang. Total cost is $129,930 and requires City Council bid approval that's expected on May 5.
* Installation of six large concrete flower pots along north side of Miner Street sidewalk from Lee to Pearson Street.
These planters will be filled with plantings during the four seasons. Total cost is $18,000 and City Council approval is expected on May 5.