DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) — Monday night's Council Connections allowed community members to learn more about upcoming projects, including the Jasper Street project that was just awarded $9 million.
A main point of concern among citizens in attendance was the Jasper Street Corridor project. Decatur City Councilman David Horn said construction could start in as soon as nine months. "This is a focal point for our neighborhood revitalization efforts. And we really believe that it is going to be a transformative project."
Councilman David Horn explained that the city's revitalization efforts focus on three key points: demolishing unfit structures, rehabilitating properties to be inhabited, and revamping abandoned lots.
There are nearly 1000 vacant lots that the City is responsible for, and Councilman Horn says they could be turned into new housing opportunities.
"I think there are some opportunities to change our housing stock and to adjust it to some of the norms of other communities." Horn said. He suggested alternative housing options such as tiny homes or pre-manufactured homes.
Residents also had the opportunity to share their thoughts on what is working well with the revitalization efforts and where improvements can be made, additionally providing suggestions for other initiatives the city should consider.
The forum is part of the "Council Connections" series, where two council members alternate hosting forums that discuss important issues impacting the Decatur community.
The next Community Connections will be in the new year, tentatively planned for January.
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