PEORIA HEIGHTS -- Plans for a mini-mall, a family and senior fitness and aquatics center and other amenities including a trailhead for the Kellar Branch hike and bike trail were unveiled at a July 25 meeting at the Heights Village Hall.
Heights consultant Tom Tincher said developers are interested in the concepts he has created.
TriCounty Regional Planning Commission executive director Terry Kohlbuss said, "this becomes a destination. It represents a huge opportunity," for development and tourism.
The meeting was to discuss an application for a trailhead on village-owned property on Prospect at the proposed hike and bike trail. The other development would be on the adjacent Cohen property, now for sale.
Grant funding for the trailhead must be sought now for the years 2012-2014.
Though the US Surface Transportation Board has not approved abandonment of the now defunct rail line, the application can be submitted in the expectation of STB approval of the abandonment.
The trailhead with restrooms and bike racks can include trees, flowers, memorials, or whatever the Heights public and village board decide to include, said trail activist Dave Pittman.
"A trailhead will be a part of the overall development," Tincher said, "a major amenity in the heart of the community."
Heights mayor Mark Allen said the village will definitely apply for the trailhead funds. "A trail makes perfect sense," he said. He suggested trees and flowers for the trailhead. "It (will be) fun and good for people's health to go up and down the trail."
--Elaine Hopkins
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