Several houses are planned to be demolished as part of highway construction plans

PIORIA COUNTY, IL (WEEK/Gray News) – Illinois officials are accepting public comments on plans to rebuild a section of Highway 29.

The Illinois Department of Transportation said restoration plans will require the demolition of eight homes in the area and the relocation of the Peoria Park neighborhood landmark.

Transportation officials said the Route 29 reconstruction proposals cover the area north of the McCluggage Bridge (U.S. 150) in Peoria Heights north of Gardner Lane in Peoria.

IDOT staff plans to share aerial photographs, reports and other project artifacts showing the proposed relocation of the Grand View Drive pavilion and the impact on Grand View Drive and Bielfeldt Park.

Improvements to a 4.6-mile stretch of Highway 29 will add a two-way turn lane and space to accommodate pedestrians and cyclists.

Officials said the team will convert about one acre of park district property for highway use and will move the Grand View Drive pavilion about 40 to 60 feet from its current location.

Road improvements would require the state to acquire rights of way and relocate the homes involved.

A public open house hearing is scheduled for Dec. 4 from 4 to 6 p.m. local time in the Peoria Heights Elementary School gymnasium.

IDOT said its staff will provide information and answer questions during the official presentation.