If the new truck bypass does get approved, it will probably be at least four years before any construction begins. And Nauvoo also needs to find a way to pay for the new road and other improvements. Some help is already on hand. With support from local groups, Baker was hired by U of I Extension largely to work with Hancock County officials and communities on community and economic development. A few years ago, an Extension-sponsored housing survey produced findings that are helping planners today.
Development is a challenge on many fronts beyond infrastructure.
These are the things Nauvoo residents and leaders are struggling with.