Frank Scott Parkway | Belleville

Frank Scott Parkway is a major east–west arterial road in Belleville, Illinois, playing a crucial role in the city’s transportation network and economic development. It connects various residential neighborhoods, commercial centers, educational institutions, and important regional destinations, serving both local traffic and commuters.

Historical Background and Naming

The parkway is named after Frank Scott Jr., the first African-American mayor of Belleville, who served from 1967 to 1971. His leadership and contributions to the city are honored through this key roadway, symbolizing progress and community development.

Route and Layout

Starting Point: Frank Scott Parkway begins in west Belleville, connecting with major roads like Illinois Route 159.

Path: It runs eastward through residential and commercial areas, passing close to important landmarks such as Belleville West High School and commercial shopping districts.

Ending Point: The parkway currently extends toward the eastern parts of Belleville and neighboring communities, with ongoing projects pushing its reach toward Scott Air Force Base and Shiloh.

Infrastructure and Upgrades

Widening Projects: Initially a two-lane road, Frank Scott Parkway has undergone several expansions to accommodate growing traffic. Key sections have been widened to five lanes, especially between Old Collinsville Road and North Green Mount Road. This expansion alleviates congestion and improves traffic flow for daily commuters.

Extension Plans: A major project underway is the extension of Frank Scott Parkway East from Cross Street in Shiloh to Air Mobility Drive near Scott Air Force Base. This extension will improve access to the base and Memorial Hospital Shiloh, especially important since Scott AFB no longer maintains its own hospital. The $13.8 million project is supported by federal, state, and local funding.

Traffic Safety and Signals: The parkway is equipped with modern traffic signals, signage, and turning lanes at key intersections to enhance safety and manage increasing vehicle volumes.

Economic and Community Impact

Commercial Growth: The parkway corridor has become a magnet for commercial development. New office buildings, retail centers, and professional services have established along the route, supported by improved roadway capacity and accessibility. For example, upscale commercial real estate transactions, including office space sales, demonstrate growing business confidence in the area.

Residential Developments: Adjacent to the parkway, upscale residential neighborhoods like Parkway West Estates have emerged, featuring homes priced between $500,000 and $1 million. This growth reflects the desirability of the area and its appeal to families seeking suburban living with convenient amenities.

Belleville West High School: Located along Frank Scott Parkway, this public high school serves the community with comprehensive academic, athletic, and extracurricular programs, drawing students from the surrounding neighborhoods.

Public Transportation and Connectivity

Memorial Hospital MetroLink Station: Situated along Frank Scott Parkway, this station connects Belleville with the broader St. Louis metropolitan transit system. It provides residents and workers with convenient access to public transportation, reducing reliance on personal vehicles and supporting regional connectivity.

Link to Major Routes: The parkway links to important highways and thoroughfares, making it a vital commuter route for those traveling to downtown Belleville, St. Louis, or Scott Air Force Base.

Future Developments and Vision

Further Widening and Safety Enhancements: Continued plans exist to widen additional sections of Frank Scott Parkway, aiming to improve traffic flow, reduce bottlenecks, and increase pedestrian and driver safety. These enhancements are critical to supporting the area's growth.

Economic Development Initiatives: With infrastructure improvements, the city anticipates attracting more businesses, healthcare facilities, and housing developments, leveraging the parkway as a key economic corridor.

Improved Access to Scott Air Force Base: The extension of the parkway will better integrate the base with the surrounding community, supporting military operations and regional health services.

Summary

Frank Scott Parkway is more than just a road; it is a dynamic artery that supports Belleville’s growth, connects communities, and honors the legacy of a key local leader. Its transformation from a simple two-lane rural road to a multi-lane urban parkway reflects the city’s expanding population, economic vitality, and commitment to infrastructure modernization. Ongoing projects and future plans ensure that Frank Scott Parkway will continue to be a central feature of Belleville’s landscape for years to come.