Article Summary: The City of Casey has formally committed to applying for a $250,000 Illinois Safe Routes to School grant to replace and install over 1,400 feet of new, ADA-compliant sidewalks for students. The project is the first phase of a larger plan to create a continuous and safe pedestrian route to local schools.

Safe Routes to School Grant Key Points:

• The Casey City Council on Monday, October 6, 2025, approved a resolution to apply for the state grant.
• The total project cost is estimated at $278,241, with the city responsible for costs exceeding the grant, estimated at $28,241.
• Phase one will focus on replacing 1,437 feet of sidewalk along Delaware Avenue and NE 1st Street.

The Casey City Council on Monday, October 6, 2025, unanimously approved a resolution to apply for a $250,000 grant from the Illinois Safe Routes to School Program to fund significant sidewalk improvements. The project aims to create a safer, more accessible path for students walking and biking to school.

During a public hearing held just before the regular meeting, city officials outlined the first phase of a multi-phase plan. This initial stage involves replacing 1,437 feet of existing sidewalk with new 5-foot-wide, ADA-compliant concrete walkways. The targeted areas are Delaware Avenue (from NE 1st Street to NE 4th Street) and NE 1st Street (from Delaware Avenue to Edgar Avenue).

“It’s about getting new sidewalks from houses to the school that are ADA compliant. That way, all kids could make it to school safely,” a city representative explained during the hearing.

The total project is estimated to cost $278,241. The state grant, which is a reimbursement program, would cover up to $250,000. The City of Casey would be responsible for the remaining $28,241, which includes preliminary engineering costs not covered by the grant. Officials noted the city has limited funds and cannot complete the work without grant assistance.

The application for the grant is due October 13. Future phases of the project aim to extend the new sidewalks along Colorado Avenue, Buckeye Avenue, and Alvenue to complete the route to the schools.