Downtown Momence Master Plan

A master plan to help direct improvement in Historic Downtown Momence is underway. The long-anticipated project – a collaboration of the City of Momence and non-profit Main Street Momence – will produce a comprehensive development guide for the four-square-block traditional business district, adjacent riverfront property and parks, and select gateways. Elements of the plan will include an evaluation of existing conditions, improvement plan options, implementation and funding strategies, streetscape renderings and signage design options.

All funding for the plan was secured through private grants, including an investment from the Community Foundation of Kankakee River Valley.

To shepherd the project, the Downtown Momence Master Plan Steering Committee – a broad-based coalition of property and business owners, civic leaders and residents – was formed. Serving on the committee are: Cathy Abbott, Marcos Barajas, Rob Bishir, David Cook, Shannon Demack, Ann Dionne, Skip Dionne, Karen Egeler, Mike Hart, Ian Hellings, Jane Johnson, Fran LeBeau, Janine Loftus, Steve Lund, Marilou Martin, Mark Noller, Sean Prophet, Stacy Reaman, John Sokol, Leigh Ann Sokoloff, Nancy Vickery, Lisa Wogan, Connie Zelhart and Bruce Zimmerman.

The Steering Committee and Lakota Group, the Chicago-based firm contracted to prepare the plan, met initially in late August 2011 to set parameters for the study and tour the downtown district. Stakeholder interviews were held, and the first Community Visioning Workshop occurred in November 2011. A second community workshop was held in February. Public comment period closed April 6. The Downtown Momence Master Plan is slated for review by the City of Momence Plan & Zone Committee before final approval by the full City Council.

CLICK HERE to view design renderings and learn about implementation strategies at the Lakota Group's dedicated Downtown Momence Master Plan website.