GLEN CARBON — The Village of Glen Carbon has been awarded a grant of up to $294,240 from the Metro East Park and Recreation District (MEPRD) to support the development of the Illinois-157 Shared-Use Path project. The proposed shared-use path will provide a connection along IL-157 from Magnolia Drive to the Sports Complex at Edwardsville High School, creating a link between existing and future pedestrian and bicycle connectivity in the region.
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The project will involve shared funding and responsibilities among the Village of Glen Carbon, Madison County Transit District and the City of Edwardsville. Section 1 of the shared use path will be jointly funded with the Village of Glen Carbon, Madison County Transit District and the City of Edwardsville, while Section 2 will be the responsibility of the Village of Glen Carbon. Planning for the shared-use path will be designated along the east side of IL-157 and the south side of Center Grove Road in accordance with Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Bureau of Engineering (BOE) policy.
"This is a significant investment in connectivity for Glen Carbon and the surrounding region," said Mayor Bob Marcus, Village of Glen Carbon. "This project will help connect our residents to the MCT trail system and neighboring communities while creating additional opportunities for walking and biking. We appreciate MEPRD and our regional partners for helping make this project possible."
The grant award was announced by MEPRD on Aug. 11. The award remains subject to completion of the final approval and agreement process. The Village and MEPRD must execute the required Project Agreements, after which MEPRD will review the agreements and verify that all current grant requirements have been met before formally completing the award process.
The Village has already taken steps toward advancing the project. On June 9, 2026, the Village Board approved a resolution authorizing the execution of an agreement with TWM, Inc. for work related to the project.
As part of the grant requirements, project expenses incurred before MEPRD's Notice to Proceed date will not be eligible for grant reimbursement. The Village will provide additional information regarding the project's timeline and construction as the project progresses.
The IL-157 Shared-Use Path is part of Glen Carbon's continued efforts to improve pedestrian and bicycle connectivity, enhance recreational opportunities and strengthen connections between the Village and surrounding communities.
