Green Edge - Potential Plan

The potential Green Edge Plan for Peoria envisions a gradual conversion of the existing industrial edge along the Illinois River to green park space and new urban development.  The City has created a great Riverfront Park in downtown.  This park system could be extended north and south where possible. A road could be extended along this park, with new residential development on the side away from the River, eventually connecting to Grand View Drive at the north end. The River side would be kept clear of development, providing access and views of the park and river and lake.

There are 8 property owners between downtown and War Memorial Drive. The City and Park District own the land between downtown and the Detweiler Marina. If the City and Park District approve this plan, the other property owners would be contacted and encouraged to donate the land between the River and the floodway line. This area cannot be developed, and has little value and some liability to the owners, but would be an excellent lineal natural "Green Edge" park. Donation would also provide a tax write off and good public relations. A walking trail or bikepath would be constructed to provide access to the park.

The property owners would also be asked to donate an additional 50 feet of land.  This would become public right of way for the eventual construction of River Trail Drive.  The property adjacent to the right of way would be kept by the current owners, for the eventual redevelopment of this area for new residential development fronting the new River Trail Drive. This would provide a financial incentive to the property owners to participate, and also attract middle class homeowners back to the Heart of Peoria. 

This plan will be submitted to the Peoria Planning Commission for their consideration for possible inclusion in the updated Comprehensive Plan.

This is only a proposal at this time, and has not been fully considered or acted on by the City or Park District.  We will present these preliminary concepts to the public for their review and input at a number of public meetings. Your thoughts and concerns can be made to Craig Hullinger at Hullingerc@gmail.com, or 309 494-8639.