The "front yard" of Peoria City Hall is getting a new look.

The front entrance of the complex, 8401 W. Monroe Street, is being overhauled and the transformation will be made based on community feedback.

After a month-long survey with 224 participants, the winning design featuring a grassy oval with a berm and small stage received an overwhelming 60% of the votes, according to officials. The new entry plaza will serve as a focal point for city hall and provide an inviting space for community events and public gatherings, a release said.

The $2.4 million project will soon have a designer under contract. The plan is to have construction begin on this project once city hall imporvements are complete, around summer 2025.

Officials say a big goal for this project is to have 0% net new grass. The grass installed into city hall’s front yard will be mitigated by removing non-programmable grass elsewhere.

This redevelopment project has been in the works since late 2023, when crews removed the fountain structure from the front of the Peoria Municipal Complex.

The chosen design not only meets the aesthetic goals for city hall's front yard but also aligns with the city's commitment to sustainability, the release said.

As part of the new entry plaza redesign, engineers are evaluating options to bring ADA parking closer to the front doors of city hall. These improvements will make the front lawn more welcoming and accessible for all members of the community, officials said.