Uptown South

The mayor of Normal is answering criticism of the town council decision's to move ahead with the Uptown underpass project despite steep price increases and a larger town share of the $40.3 million cost.

To get the decade-old Uptown underpass project over the finish line will require increases in food and beverage and hotel-motel taxes. That staff recommendation emerged at a special town council meeting on Wednesday evening.

The Uptown South plan will help shape space for business, housing, parks and public space in the area. Mayor Chris Koos hopes the plan’s sustainability goals will have a positive environmental impact.