The Delavan Township Board voted this week to move forward with a phased approach to upgrading the parking lot at the Township Building, located at 1005 W. 4th Street, following the Delavan City Council’s inaction on a key Tax Increment Financing (TIF) request.

During Wednesday evening's Township Trustees meeting, board members approved a motion to begin Phase 1 of the project, which will start the paving and site improvements aimed at expanding parking and enhancing Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) accessibility. The upgrades are central to the Township’s plan to relocate its polling place to the Township Building in time for next year’s election, moving it from its current location at the American Legion.

Township Trustee Aaron Sundell pushed to approve beginning Phase 1 right away, noting the asphalt vendor's schedule fills fast. "We want to get on the schedule now, and not wait," Sundell said.

Originally, the board intended to complete the project in one go. A TIF funding request was submitted to the Delavan City Council to cover half of the project so the full scope of the work could be done, but the council took no action, leaving the township without the additional funds needed for a comprehensive rollout.

In response, the Township Board opted for a two-phase plan. Phase 1 will proceed with essential groundwork and paving of only a portion of the parking lot. Phase 2, which includes paving the remaining parking area along with the 4th Street entrance to the lot, will be deferred pending future funding opportunities.

Construction on Phase 1 is expected to begin later this year.