Evanston city officials say the north leg of Poplar Avenue will be realigned to Broadway Avenue, eliminating direct access to Central Street in a test of a new traffic improvement plan starting Aug. 17.
Pedestrian crossings will also be redefined to accommodate crossing Broadway Avenue. north of Central Street.
The redesign is intended to reduce conflict points between vehicles and pedestrians and to make the intersection safer for all users.
The test is scheduled to continue continue until next spring, giving city officials and residents time to evaluate the impact of the realignment before permanent changes are implemented.
This improvement option was discussed at public meetings on Dec. 11 and March 12.
Officials say the intersection is heavily used by pedestrians including school children, transit users and commuters. Haven Middle School, Kingsley Elementary School, and St. Athanasius School are within a few blocks of the area.