Goshen Commons

Goshen Commons will reimagine a one-block area in downtown Edwardsville as a pedestrian-friendly public plaza that will incorporate green space, an expansive gathering area, walkways and seating areas, festoon-style lighting, a video screen, restrooms and inviting amenities for the public to enjoy. This park is being built on St. Louis Street between North Main and North Second streets, which has been permanently closed to vehicular traffic (other than restricted access for event set-up or public safety needs). It will prioritize pedestrian safety for daily use as a hub for Parks & Recreation activities, the Land of Goshen Community Market, public gatherings and special events. Funding to create this courtyard and park space will include a $2 million member-directed initiative by Rep. Katie Stuart through the Illinois Department of Nature Resources to support downtown economic vitality. Additional costs to construct Goshen Commons will be paid out of the Edwardsville Enhancement Fund, which was established with a quarter-percent sales tax, effective January 1, 2024, to fund green space purchases, park projects, capital projects and public safety pensions.

Press release: Mayor Art Risavy, Rep. Katie Stuart Announce $2M Grant to Create Goshen Commons Downtown

Project Renderings (Credit: Lochmueller Group & Arcturis)

A drawing of a downtown park at night with a lighted overhead entrance reading Goshen Commons
An overhead, nighttime view of a wide paved walkway next to a grassy park with overhead lighting
A drawing of a downtown park with an overhead entrance reading Goshen Commons
A curved sidewalk with bollards and street poles overlooking a paved park area
A tree-filled, grassy park area
A drawing of a downtown park with an overhead entrance reading Goshen Commons

CURRENT STATUS

(03/16/25) The City Council approved a $3.95 million bid from S.M. Wilson to undertake the construction of this park. The expected construction start date is spring 2026, with completion expected in fall 2026.

ANTICIPATED CONSTRUCTION IMPACTS

The one-block area of St. Louis Street between North Main Street and North Second Street is now closed to vehicular traffic. The space is being used as a staging area for the North Main Street water main replacement and streetscape project. Due to construction, the Land of Goshen Community Market will relocate to City Park for the 2026 regular season.

LOCATION OF PROJECT

This project is located on a one-block area of St. Louis Street, between North Main Street and North Second Street, and along adjacent City-owned green space property in Edwardsville.

DESCRIPTION OF PROJECT

Construction of a public multi-purpose pedestrian plaza and event green space in Downtown Edwardsville. The project includes demolition of St. Louis Street between North Main Street and 2nd Street, utility work, decorative hardscapes, landscapes, restroom building, shade structures, and signature plaza entry signage. The site work includes decorative pavements, lighting, landscaping, irrigation, and site furniture. 

PROJECT CONTACT INFORMATION

Please email James Arnold, the City's economic and community development director, with questions.

  • The Edwardsville Public Works Department is overseeing the project design and construction
  • S.M. Wilson is the lead contractor
  • Lochmueller Group is the project engineer