Winner of the 2020 ACEC Merit Award | Transportation
2016 Snapshot:
In East St. Louis, aging infrastructure and frequent flooding had long impacted Front Street—an important corridor serving local industry and riverfront access. Recognizing the need for a safer, more reliable connection, this project set out to transform the corridor while improving mobility, drainage, and access to key destinations.
TWM partnered with St. Clair County and multiple regional stakeholders to turn that vision into reality. The project included reconstruction of 1.5 miles of roadway, along with a new 1-mile, 10′ wide shared-use path running parallel to the Mississippi River. This new trail creates a vital link between Malcolm Martin Memorial Park and the Madison County Trail system, expanding recreational opportunities while enhancing connectivity throughout the region. Additional improvements included reconstruction of Front Street, B Street, and Missouri Avenue to tie into a new IDOT ramp at IL Route 3, providing more efficient access to nearby grain handling facilities.
One of the project’s biggest challenges—and opportunities—was improving traffic flow near the busy Casino Queen entrance. With future development and a new IL Route 3 ramp on the horizon, the area needed a solution that could handle growth. TWM completed a traffic analysis and intersection design study to evaluate options and ultimately designed a modern roundabout to accommodate current demands and future growth from nearby development and the new IL Route 3 ramp. The design prioritized safety, efficiency, and truck accessibility, ensuring the intersection could support both local and industrial traffic.
Behind the scenes, the project required careful coordination at every step. Multiple roadways were reconstructed, drainage issues were addressed, utilities were coordinated, and access to local businesses—especially grain facilities—had to be maintained throughout construction. TWM played a critical role in securing project funding and building partnerships. The team supported successful grant applications, including a $3.5 million federal EDA award, and helped coordinate collaboration among agencies and stakeholders such as SWIDA, MEPRD, SCCTD, Casino Queen, Bunge, and Cargill.
From detailed surveying and roadway design to drainage improvements, utility coordination, and construction staging, TWM delivered a comprehensive solution that kept businesses operational throughout construction. Today, the revitalized corridor not only improves transportation and access but also strengthens connections to the riverfront and surrounding communities—supporting long-term economic growth and resilience.
