City officials in East Peoria and Washington are working together to extend Summit Drive to Business Route 24.
While some argue this joint development will benefit both cities equally, others have pointed out the disproportionate bill that the two cities must pay.
The city of East Peoria must pay $1.35 million, while Washington has proposed to pay $278,000.
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Those are drastically different bills, but it makes sense when you look at the facts.
East Peoria is leading the project, and only 12 percent of the project is the city of Washington’s township.
Instead of getting hung up on the price tag, it is important to realize that this project has been discussed for more than 20 years and is now moving forward.
“I think this is a long-term project that’s going to benefit both cities,” East Peoria Mayor Dave Mingus said.
Washington Mayor Gary Manier seconded that.
“I’m thrilled because Washington and East Peoria can work together on a project and come together to do what’s right for the entire region,” he said.
This project is finally taking shape and should be celebrated by both the city of East Peoria and Washington.
Not only will it help spur economic development in both cities, it will help improve public safety, according to Manier.
Traffic flow will improve, and buses will more easily travel in that area.
That’s good news for both towns.
Both cities should continue to work together to make this project a reality.
