West Peoria News: New center of our city will be sight to see

As we look ahead to a new year, it’s a time to reflect on the events that shaped West Peoria in 2024 and what’s ahead for 2025. Our community has watched the groundbreaking of the new City Hall, and as the construction nears completion, the community marks a new chapter in the city’s history. The new space provides a modern and accessible place for residents to connect with local government, gather with the community, and honor our treasured veterans.

Alongside the transformation at City Hall, there is more to come as we watch the upgrade at the hardware store by local developer John Christensen. His changes at the corner of Rohmann and Sterling have seen the addition of two new businesses over the past year for residents to frequent, including Acupoint Massage and Everlasting Hair Koncepts, as well as the existing Salon Alchemy.

West Peoria parks are set for further transformation. In September, the Peoria Park District gathered community input on proposed designs for new playgrounds at Franciscan Park. This update aims to enhance the city park, and we’re eager to see the final design selection.

FREE BOOKS: Emily Huff, a local advocate of Little Free Libraries, recently cataloged the locations in the area. Her research highlights six locations where residents can freely donate and borrow books. These Little Free Libraries can be found at the following addresses: the 2300 block of Callendar, West Manor at Bergan, the 2000 block of Clarke, the 2500 block of Kenwood, the 2400 block of Moss, and Kickapoo Terrace. Thirteen years ago, Huff started West Peoria Library in one room in the now-New Life Christian Church. With that location closed, Huff continues her efforts to create a community of Little Free Libraries, showing her enduring dedication to promoting literacy and engaging with the community.

GOLF CLASSIC: Mark your calendars for the sixth annual West Peoria Golf Classic on Saturday, Oct. 4, 2025. The 2024 event raised $10,600 for the West Peoria Fire Department.

THANKS, SHARON: As we reflect on the past year, we also remember the late Sharon McBride. Her contributions to the West Peoria community, including her work as the writer of this column, span decades. She chaired numerous projects and left a legacy that should always be remembered. Her absence is deeply felt, and her contributions will continue to be felt throughout the community.

As we enter the new year, take time out to express heartfelt gratitude to all the volunteers, city officials, and community members who dedicate time and energy to making West Peoria a thriving community. As the West Peoria Fire Department’s motto reminds us, “Neighbors Serving Neighbors” is the foundation of our community’s strength.