Oakwood Pedestrian Bridge Project Advances

The City of Geneseo continues to move forward with plans for a pedestrian bridge at Oakwood Landing, although the project is still awaiting approval from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR).

The proposed bridge would span Geneseo Creek approximately 20 yards north of the Central Bank billboard, creating a dedicated pedestrian crossing between the Oakwood Landing area and the Oakwood Avenue corridor. Currently, pedestrians must use a narrow vehicular bridge that does not include sidewalks.

The project dates back to 2022, when the City first proposed the Historic Landing Area & Pedestrian Crossing Project. While the City was unsuccessful in obtaining Illinois Transportation Enhancement Program (ITEP) grant funding in both the 2022 and 2025 application cycles, work has continued using local support. The beautification and historic landing portion of the project was completed in March 2024.

Several milestones have been reached over the past year:

  • The City budgeted $250,000 for the bridge project.

  • Engineering firm IMEG updated the bridge design and construction estimate, increasing the proposed bridge length from 70 feet to 75 feet.

  • A hydraulic study required by IDNR was completed and submitted on February 5, 2026.

  • Central Bank has committed to granting the City a perpetual easement needed for the bridge and connecting pathways.

  • The Geneseo Foundation has reaffirmed its previously approved $125,000 grant remains committed to the project during 2026.

The City also plans to launch a community fundraising campaign. Resident Tom Anderson, who helped develop the Oakwood Corridor concept while serving as a Veteran Intern with the City, has volunteered to serve as a citizen advocate for the fundraising effort. According to the project update, donors will be recognized through contribution tiers, with names displayed on a plaque mounted on or near the completed bridge.

According to the latest project status, the bridge is awaiting IDNR approval of the elevated bridge design. If approval is received, the City Council will review updated cost estimates before determining the next steps.

City capital project reports show the bridge remains a $250,000 project, with approximately $26,447 spent to date on engineering and preliminary work.

Sources: City of Geneseo July 14, 2026 City Council Agenda Packet; City of Geneseo 2026 Capital Planning Project Updates.