The future Joliet metropolis sq. downtown may embody two levels, a winter ice rink and a children space with butterfly chairs and e-book sculptures.

Just what goes in it, nonetheless, will rely on how a lot town is prepared to spend.

The last design of the square is underway, and value estimates will probably be offered to the City Council on Sept. 18, metropolis Community Development Director Eva-Marie Tropper informed the council final week.

“Right now, the project team is in the final stage of design,” Tropper mentioned.

The timetable is to place out the venture for bids in early spring and start building subsequent summer season, she mentioned.

The metropolis needs the sq. accomplished for 2026, which is the a centesimal anniversary of each historic Route 66, which runs by way of downtown, and the Rialto Square Theatre, which is situated throughout Chicago Street from the longer term sq..

The venture has been estimated to value between $6 million and $10 million. So far, town has dedicated $6 million from a $3 million state grant matched by Joliet.

The 1.3-acre website for the sq., which is now two parking tons and a principally concrete Van Buren Plaza, is being designed to be “a green oasis” that can embody timber and inexperienced house whereas offering respite and leisure, Tropper mentioned.

There was some concern from not less than one council member about how oasis-like the sq. will stay as soon as it’s constructed.

“Who’s going to cut the grass? Who’s going to take care of the weeds?” council member Joe Clement mentioned. “I’m only saying that because throughout the city we could do a better job than we’re doing now.”

Tropper mentioned upkeep is being factored into the plan for the sq..

The metropolis has held community meetings and conducted online surveys to gather public opinion on the plan.

Here are some options that Tropper mentioned are being put into the design:

• A stage that can be utilized for every day performances and periodic occasions.

• A household space throughout Clinton Street from the Joliet Public Library that can embody a small stage for youths actions, seating within the form of butterflies and e-book sculptures for interactive play.

• Seating alongside low-level water options.

• Shade buildings alongside Chicago Street.

• A paver versatile part of Chicago Street “that feels like an extension of the square.”

• Space for an ice rink and vacation tree within the winter.

• An space for meals vehicles and tents throughout occasions.

Council member Susanna Ibarra recommended that the sq. characteristic the phrase “Joliet” displayed prominently “as a centerpiece,” noting that it could be a horny characteristic that she has seen executed for public areas in different cities.