Work is completed in 1956. Plans for Alternate U.S. 20 route south of Harrison Avenue approved by city and county officials. Commission form of government again turned down. Robert R. Canfield defeats Charles W. Baker for GOP state senator nomination. John B. Anderson wins Republican nomination for State's attorney.
Voters approve Rockford Park District public recreation tax.
Completion is in 1957. Rev. Loras Thomas Lane becomes bishop of the Rockford Catholic Diocese. National Lock Company moves into new Kishwaukee St. plant on July 13, 1957. Workmen dismantle Palace Theater, which opened in 1915 and was center for vaudeville in Rockford. Benjamin T. Schleicher is elected mayor of Rockford.