The City of Dixon has been awarded a $4.6 million grant from the State of Illinois, administered through the Illinois Department of Transportation, to complete Project Rock, the fourth and final phase of the Riverfront Master Plan.
Project Rock will create a pedestrian and bike path bridge across the historic railroad bridge spanning the Rock River and add 1.8 miles of new pathway connections throughout Dixon. The project also delivers major improvements to Page Park’s roads and pathways, further enhancing access and recreation for residents and visitors.
Senator Li Arellano highlighted the project’s significance, noting that “Project ROCK will have a transformational impact on Dixon’s historic downtown and the entire riverfront region.
Generations of leaders, from multiple governments as well as the private sector, have committed themselves to planning and executing successful redevelopment along our Rock River. The State of Illinois has been and continues to be a partner in that legacy as we ensure Project ROCK achieves its full potential for our citizens.”
This award builds on Dixon’s earlier success in securing a $13 million federal RAISE grant for the project. Rising construction costs in recent years created a funding gap, but the new state grant ensures Project Rock can now move forward without delay. The City’s previously pledged $4.6 million in local funding will remain available for future infrastructure priorities, strengthening Dixon’s ability to pursue additional major projects.