Litchfield Pursues Safe Routes to School Grant for New Sidewalks

Litchfield City Council Meeting | Sept. 18, 2025

Article Summary: The City Council authorized a resolution of financial commitment to apply for an Illinois Safe Routes to School grant. The proposed project would construct new sidewalks connecting local schools and the library, improving safety for students.

Safe Routes to School Key Points:

• Grant Application: The city is applying for $250,000 in funding through the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT).

• Project Area: The project includes new ADA-compliant sidewalks along State Street from Tyler Avenue north to Sargent Street.

• Connectivity: The route would connect J.D. Colt School to the Litchfield Public Library and Litchfield Elementary School.

• Local Cost: The total project cost is estimated at $278,287, with the city responsible for approximately $28,287.

Litchfield is taking steps to make the city more pedestrian-friendly for students. On Wednesday, Sept. 18, 2025, the City Council approved a resolution committing financial support for a Safe Routes to School grant application.

If awarded, the grant would fund the majority of a project to install new sidewalks along State Street, filling a gap between Tyler Avenue and Sargent Street. This would create a continuous safe walking path connecting J.D. Colt School, the Litchfield Public Library, and the new Litchfield Elementary School.

“City staff has identified this section of State St. as a priority for permanent improvements,” the agenda noted.

The grant is highly competitive, but city officials are hopeful. The project is designed to meet all IDOT specifications and ADA compliance standards. The total estimated cost is $278,287, with the grant covering $250,000 and the city covering the remaining balance plus engineering fees.