Above / Lane closures on Washington Street between Chicago and Benton avenues are expected through October 2024. (PN Photo, May 27, 2024)
Updated Post, May 27, 2024 / FYI: It’s quite likely that off-line queries about prospective development in the empty lot where the Kroehler YMCA used to be are among PN’s most frequent requests for answers.
Folks note they see the piles of gravel, earthmoving equipment, pipes and other construction supplies across Washington Street from Catch 35 and just south of the Naperville Woman’s Club; and they wonder why they didn’t know something was in the works.
Since the second phase of the streetscape project began “in the works” in early February, the property has been used as a staging area. Though folks have speculated about the possibilities for redevelopment and the parties who now might own it, plans other than the current use to store trucks, directional signs and needed supplies for the streetscape project have not been made public to our knowledge.
Today during the Memorial Day Observance in Central Park, inquiring minds wanted to know. One gentleman was explaining to his friend what he’d heard. Surprised, they both wondered why they were unaware of what appeared to be the beginning of a new development.
Simply put, what appears on the property is not the beginning a new development.
Kindly let folks know that no “fast ones” are taking place on the development of this property. From now until the streetscape project is finished, likely through the end of October, the empty lot is being used for staging supplies and equipment, much the way the empty lot next to Burger King at Washington Street and Aurora is being used to stage materials for the Washington Street Bridge reconstruction project.
Original Post, Feb. 1, 2024 / The second phase of work to improve streets, sidewalks and utilities in portions of downtown Naperville is scheduled to begin Monday, Feb. 5, 2024, pending weather or unforeseen circumstances. These updates will improve pedestrian mobility, accessibility and safety in this area while also ensuring downtown Naperville continues to be a must-see destination for residents and visitors for years to come.
Work will take place between Chicago Avenue and Benton Avenue and is scheduled to be complete by the end of October. Phased work schedules will close portions of streets at various times while still allowing pedestrian access to businesses. Intermittent lane closures on Washington Street will begin the week of Feb. 5 and full lane closures in both directions are expected to begin the week of Feb. 19.
One lane of northbound and southbound traffic will be maintained at all times. On-street parking on Washington Street between Chicago and Benton avenues will be eliminated throughout the project.
Consider alternate routes to downtown Naperville
Travel in this area will be greatly affected by both the new closures and the ongoing construction on the Washington Street Bridge reconstruction between Chicago Avenue and Aurora Avenue. Motorists should expect traffic delays when traveling through the impacted area and are encouraged to find alternate routes.
Downtown: Progress in Progress
This work is part of the Downtown: Progress in Progress initiative that focuses on continued growth and improvements in the downtown area.
For more information and project updates, visit www.naperville.il.us/downtownprogress.
For more information about the Downtown Naperville Alliance, contact Executive Director Katie Wood at katie@downtownnaperville.com.
Memories of Washington Street before progress
