Earliest expected start date: Summer 2027
Anticipated completion: Approximately two years for construction, late 2029
Overview: The current, four-lane roadway was originally built in 1940 with multiple resurfacings and patchings since. Reconstruction will occur on 2.6 miles between the McClugage Bridge on the south end and Gardner Lane on the north, basically split between a .9 mile southern segment that is more rural in character and a northernmost 1.7 miles that is more urban in nature.
Defining characteristics: The thoroughfare is bounded on the east by railroad tracks, homes and the Illinois River, and on the west by wooded bluffs, some commercial and residential development, and parkland. Current traffic volume is 14,100 vehicles per day. Route 29 serves as a commuter corridor and northern gateway to the Peoria area.
Project Scope: The existing alignment will be maintained with the road being widened to four, 11-foot through lanes plus a 12-foot, two-way turn lane on the northern 1.7 miles. Parts of the bluff on the west side will be removed to accommodate the widening, with new retaining walls constructed.
Special features: A shared-use recreational path with views of the Illinois River is proposed for the bluff side. The historic Grandview Drive Pavilion will be lifted and relocated about 60 feet to the west of its current site to make way for the trail, which will hook up with the new, protected pedestrian lane on the eastbound McClugage span. Two pedestrian crossings are planned at Bielfeldt Park and just north of Linnet Street. Roadway drainage issues will be addressed along the entire length of the project.
Other impacts: Eight properties will be displaced by the development.
Funding: $64.5 million is included in the state’s fiscal year 2025-2030 multi-year program. Total costs are expected to exceed $70 million between state and local support, with the Village of Peoria Heights acquiring and seeking grants to help offset the costs to local taxpayers. Nearly $1 million already has been secured through a congressional grant with the help of U.S. Rep. Eric Sorensen for a water main project in that corridor.