West State Street (Business Route 20)

RS&H performed phase II engineering services for the US 20 BR West State Street reconstruction in Rockford, Illinois. The project originated from the City of Rockford launching a series of projects along the corridor to improve the area’s deteriorating infrastructure, revitalize the neighborhood, and develop an attractive and inviting gateway for surrounding businesses, neighborhoods, and travelers in Rockford.

RS&H’s first inspection of the area revealed deteriorated conditions and poor housing conditions. It was at that moment the designers realized this project was much more than just reconstructing the roadway. Improvements of US 20 BR West State Street consisted of a new four-lane roadway with two lanes in each direction separated by a 22-foot wide landscaped median and features a curb-and-gutter design and an enclosed drainage system. The design also included a 5-foot concrete sidewalk, which was constructed on the north side of the road, and a 10-foot multi-use path that meanders through a landscaped area on both sides of West State Street. The project also included intersection and interconnection design.

Construction limits along the corridor were a moving target for this project. Some property impacts had to be avoided as the city committed not to impact two churches while other properties, such as active businesses, needed to stay functional, while others designated to remain in the area went out of business were acquired.

The project improved the quality of life in the neighborhood and enhanced the area socially, economically, and financially.

The project lasted eight years and was challenging in almost every aspect of the design. RS&H is proud to have been a part of such an improvement in the local community. Our goals always go beyond building functional roadways and meeting the technical aspects. Our approach to every project applies decades of well-honed expertise with insight that yields innovation with a purpose—to achieve outcomes that lead to a future where everyone is connected to what they need to thrive.