Two City of St. Charles projects have been named Public Works Project of the Year in their categories from the American Public Works Association (APWA) Fox Valley Branch. The 1st Street Plaza Project won in the Structures – Less than $ 5 million category; and the Kautz Road Reconstruction, a joint project with the City of Geneva, Ill., won the $ 5 to $25 million Transportation category. APWA awards recognize excellence in the management, administration, and implementation of public works projects.
The 1st Street Plaza Project
The 1st Street Plaza, completed in 2025, is a welcoming place to gather with paved walkways that connect to nearby outdoor spaces. A trellis topped with solar panels encircles the plaza, creating a relaxing environment to enjoy surrounding restaurants, and take in the beauty of downtown St. Charles and the Fox River. The $6.4 million project was supported by $1.5 million in grants and private funding.
Kautz Road Reconstruction Project
Led by the City of Geneva in partnership with the City of St. Charles, the $6.2 million Kautz Road Project, completed in 2025, replaced deteriorated pavement, improved drainage and safety, enhanced regional freight transportation, and connected trails. “We are honored to be recognized with these awards,” said St. Charles Public Works Director Peter Suhr. “Projects such as the 1st Street Plaza and Kautz Road Reconstruction enhance quality of life in St. Charles while maintaining the essential infrastructure that residents, businesses, and visitors rely on.”
Previous St. Charles AWPA Awards
• Riverside Lift Station (2025)
• 7th Avenue Creek Flood Reduction and Stream Restoration Project (2022)
• Charles Police Station (2020)
• Red Gate Bridge (2013)
• Riverside Water Treatment Facility (2012)
• Municipal Center Riverwall and Plaza Restoration (2011)