Diego Lopez, Reporter
The Village of Milan has been making significant progress in modernizing its infrastructure with transformative projects like the reconstruction of Airport Road and the eagerly anticipated opening of the Maverick station. These developments aim to improve travel efficiency, boost the local economy, and address longstanding traffic challenges.
All of these updates were given at the December Coffee with the Managers meeting, by Village Manager Candy Williams.
Revamping the Public Swimming Pool
One of the most discussed topics was the ongoing work on Milan’s swimming pool, a project that has faced unexpected hurdles.
Originally envisioned as a remodeling effort to bring locker rooms, showers, and facilities up to modern ADA standards, the project revealed deeper structural issues. Moisture from years of use has compromised sections of the building, triggering additional fire safety code requirements such as the need for a sprinkler system.
“When you start a remodel on an older building, you don’t always know what you’re going to find,” Williams explained. “What we found were code violations that require a full rebuild of the front portion of the facility.”
The village faces a $2.5 million funding shortfall to complete the work but remains determined to do the job right. Williams emphasized that putting a “Band-Aid” on the building would only lead to more costs in a few years. “If we can get this done all at once, it will last another 20 years. That’s the goal,” she said.
Despite the delays, Williams remained optimistic, noting that the pool’s main structure is in excellent shape and serves as a vital community resource. The village is actively seeking additional funding to bridge the gap.
For the time being, Milan is looking how to get the pool open as quickly as possible.
Airport Road Nears Completion
Another major project, Airport Road, is moving closer to completion.
The box culvert has been installed, and crews are now focused on finishing concrete work to prevent erosion around the Rio San Jose. With favorable weather, Williams anticipates the road base will be laid by December 18. The village is hopeful that the paving will begin soon after.
“This project is wrapping up nicely, and once it’s complete, we’ll move directly into work on the Stanley Bridge,” Williams said, proof of the village’s efficient capability in managing multiple projects simultaneously.
Addressing Traffic and Development at Maverik
The opening of the new Maverik gas station has brought economic benefits to the area but also concerns about increased traffic congestion. Horizon Boulevard is a narrow road near the new development, and has long been a bottleneck, exacerbated by semitrucks parking illegally.
Williams shared that village police are actively working on solutions, including issuing citations to truck drivers who block the road. “Our officers are giving them a ten-minute warning to grab what they need and move on. If they don’t comply, they get a ticket,” she explained.
Milan Police Department has long had to deal with illegal parking by semis up and down Horizon Blvd., with the village even passing an ordinance making parking along the road illegal.
While Maverik has committed to ensuring its location does not become an overnight parking hub, Williams emphasized the need for further investment in traffic management. She welcomed input from community members and encouraged entrepreneurial ideas for addressing truck congestion.
Williams explained that the Maverik will cater to passenger vehicles and will include a new restaurant.
A Bright Future for a Small Village
Milan is currently overseeing 18 active projects totaling $25 million in funding, an impressive feat for a village of its size.
While the village faces its share of challenges, the progress being made speaks to the determination of its leadership and the resilience of the community. Williams highlighted the importance of forward-thinking planning, especially when it comes to using public funds wisely.
“We may be small, but we’re accomplishing big things,” Williams concluded. “These projects are about making Milan safer, more efficient, and better prepared for the future.”
While challenges remain, Milan’s progress is a testament to what small communities can achieve with strategic planning and strong leadership.
As Williams put it, “We may be small, but we’re accomplishing big things.”