The retail corridor of Skokie’s Main Street is on the verge of a transformation. After years of decline, a new improvement plan is underway, aiming to inject life into this area. On July 20, the Skokie Village Board approved a $1.8 million contract with Copenhaver Construction, the lowest bid among four, to upgrade the streetscapes.
Focus on Streetscape Enhancements
The project, part of the long-term vision for Main Street, will target sidewalk and plaza upgrades. Key locations include the south side near Karlov and Keystone Avenues, and the north side near Keystone Avenue and west of Crawford Avenue. Residents and visitors can expect new hardscaping materials, expanded spaces for art and gateway features, additional landscaping, new furnishings, and extended curbs and crosswalks.
Along with aesthetic upgrades, the contractor will regrade select site sections, repair drainage issues, and install new irrigation systems and electrical setups for light poles. Funding will come from a $600,000 grant from the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, supplemented by the Capital Improvement Project budget.
Support from Local Officials
Trustee Lisa Levy, a long-time advocate for Main Street’s revival, expressed her emotional support during the meeting. She has witnessed the area’s decline and is hopeful for its future success. Trustee Keith Robinson also praised the efforts made and looked forward to witnessing the progress firsthand, especially the groundbreaking event.
Planning and Community Engagement
Landscape designer MKSK Inc. conducted a study of the Main Street corridor in 2023 and 2024. Based on this, the village outlined a plan and engaged MKSK to prepare designs and documents for improving the area between Crawford and Kildare Avenue.
Skokie Village Manager John Lockerby emphasized the need for phased construction to reduce business disruption. Mayor Ann Tennes highlighted the importance of community support for local businesses during construction, encouraging residents to continue their patronage.
Concerns and Future Plans
At the July 20 meeting, resident Ken Marley voiced his concerns about public spending on private properties and the dissemination of project information. Village Manager Lockerby clarified that the village intends to acquire and develop properties to create community spaces.
With Board approval, construction is set to begin for the two-block area, though the start date remains unconfirmed. The overall revitalization project could span over 20 years, given the scale of property acquisition and redevelopment needed. Despite the lengthy timeline, officials remain optimistic about attracting residents back to Main Street.