Edwardsville Approves Construction Of Nearly $4 Million ‘Goshen Commons’ Pedestrian Plaza

EDWARDSVILLE – A section of St. Louis Street in Edwardsville is set to become a pedestrian plaza and outdoor recreation space.

City Council members voted 5-1 to pass a $3.95 million contract with S.M. Wilson for the construction of Goshen Commons on March 16, 2026. Alderman William Krause cast the sole vote against the contract, citing concerns about the high cost.

The construction of Goshen Commons is set to transform one block of St. Louis Street from North Main Street to North 2nd Street into a pedestrian-friendly plaza and greenspace area. According to meeting documents, an outdoor recreation space, restroom facilities, pedestrian plaza and street lighting are among the features planned at the site.

Mayor Art Risavy previously said Goshen Commons will also feature bike racks, gaming boards, an interactive video wall, and more “in the heart of downtown.” The future park and plaza will also be the newly redeveloped home of the Land of Goshen Community Market during the summer months.

Risavy and State Rep. Katie Stuart announced in August of 2024 that the city would receive a $2 million grant to build Goshen Commons. The funds were secured as part of a Stuart-directed initiative through the Illinois Department of Natural Resources to support downtown economic vitality.

At the March 16, 2026, meeting, Risavy said the city’s portion of the project funding was previously estimated at $1.5 million for a total of $3.5 million; however, the only bid for the project came in at $3.95 million, approximately $450,000 over the city’s original estimate.

Krause described the project as “a bit of an overkill for the $4 million price tag,” especially for what he imagines “will for the most part be a relatively empty space.” He suggested the money could be better used on other long-requested projects around the city, such as a skate park or other active/passive greenspaces.

Alderman Chris Farrar acknowledged the nearly $4 million total “was a little sticker shock,” but expressed excitement and support for the project and its potential as a large-scale event space.

“I’m really in favor of this project,” Farrar said, adding he sees it increasing foot traffic to downtown businesses. “My hope is that it’s going to be an extension of City Park and that we’re just going to see more bigger events that are going to involve both of these areas.”

Construction of Goshen Commons is expected to be completed in the fall of 2026.

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