'Nice-To-Have' Bridge In Elmhurst Debated

ELMHURST, IL — The Elmhurst City Council took the next step Monday toward a pedestrian and bicycle bridge over Route 83.

But one alderman questioned how the city would pay for it, classifying the bridge as "nice to have."

Officials said the city would get about $2 million in outside grants for the project, but would have to come up with $400,000. The bridge would be north of North Avenue.

During a council discussion, Ward 3 Alderman Michael Bram said the city is struggling to find a source of money for its current general obligation bonds for stormwater projects. "And we're paving the way to issue more bonds to have a nice-to-have project vs. a critical project such as stormwater," he said.

Ward 2 Alderman Bob Dunn, however, said the project would link north Elmhurst, which Bram and Dunn represent, to the "very important and enjoyable green infrastructure" along the Salt Creek Greenway Trail on the west side of Route 83.

Now, he said, bicyclists and pedestrians from the north side cannot get to that area safely, given the heavy traffic on Route 83.

"We would be foolhardy to not move forward with it," Dunn said.

Bram said Dunn's points were well taken.

"I agree with the merits of the project," he said. "I have a concern with the timing and commitment we are making in paying for this project."

Ward 6 Alderman Jim Kennedy said the city was taking a step toward the final engineering for the project, not the construction itself. The city's match for the engineering, he said, would amount to $35,000 to $40,000, with the rest paid for with grant money.

The council voted 9-1 for taking the step for final engineering, with Bram dissenting. Absent were aldermen Mark Mulliner, Brian Cahill and Tina Park. Another council seat is vacant.