Trial Modifications to Central/Poplar/Broadway Intersection Begin August 17

Submitted by the City of Evanston

Based on public feedback and to address safety and operational concerns, the City of Evanston’s Public Works Department will begin trial modifications to Poplar Ave., north of Central St., beginning Monday, August 17.

The north leg of Poplar Ave. will be realigned to Broadway Ave., eliminating direct access to Central St. Pedestrian crossings will also be redefined to accommodate crossing Broadway Ave. north of Central St. The trial implementation period, which will remain in place until the spring of 2016, will allow the City and residents to evaluate conditions before permanent changes are implemented.

This improvement option was discussed at the December 11, 2014 and March 12, 2015 public meetings. The intersection is heavily used by pedestrians, school children, transit users and commuters. Haven Middle School, Kingsley Elementary School, and St. Athanasius School are within a few blocks of the area. The Central Street Metra station is also located at the intersection. The trial implementation is intended to reduce conflict points between vehicles and pedestrians and to make the intersection safer for all users.