City officials in Rochelle are moving forward in putting together a bike route in the community.
The Planning and Zoning Commission last night recommended to the council that they approve a bicycle transportation plan for the Hub City.
1 of the organizers of the project was Councilman Ed Rice. He said that streets in the city along with the current bike path will be part of the route. Rice said that signage in the community will be a key aspect in the program.
Community Development Director Chris Limas informed the commission about some new business projects in the city. A building permit has been taken out for a 7 unit retail center located on Caron Road, west of the Walmart building. Businesses that are planned to use the building include GNC, US Cellular, Great Clips, Radio Shack, and a dental facility. Construction is scheduled to begin this fall.
Limas said a car rental place may also open where the former J&L gas station had been located along Illinois 251 South.
The Commission recommended to city officials that 3 parcels of land that total 60 acres be annexed into the city for the extension of the runway at the Municipal Airport.
The runway at Koritz field is currently 4,226 feet. The proposal would increase the runway to 5,000 feet or around 800 feet of additional pavement.
Bids for the project are expected to go out next March with construction to begin in 2013 with a completion date of 2014.
Federal and State grant money will be used for the project.
