Plans, Reports and Studies

Bicycle Master Plan

Completed in May 2024

The City of Mt. Vernon, in collaboration with the Greater Egypt Regional Planning and Development Commission and the City of Benton, has completed a Bicycle Master Plan to guide future bicycle improvements in the community. The plan outlines short, intermediate, and long-term strategies for enhancing bicycle facilities and connectivity.

It assesses existing bicycle infrastructure and roadways, proposes specific projects, and considers links to regional trail networks. Community input played a key role, with residents, organizations, and businesses contributing through meetings, surveys, and public open houses.

View the plan

Brownfield Assessment and Cleanup Planning

Awarded in 2025 — Project Underway

The City of Mt. Vernon has been awarded a $500,000 EPA Brownfield Assessment Grant to study and plan for the reuse of properties with potential contamination, known as brownfields. These sites, including several long-vacant properties around South 10th Street, will undergo Phase I and Phase II Environmental Site Assessments.

The grant also supports cleanup planning and community involvement activities, helping to remove barriers to redevelopment and encourage new investment in Mt. Vernon.

View the grant details

Visit the dedicated project page (coming soon)

Comprehensive Plan

Adopted in October 2022

In 2022, the City of Mt. Vernon engaged the community through 14 listening sessions and gathered input from the Mayor, City Council, City Manager, and Executive Staff. From this process, the City identified 99 goals to be achieved over the next decade, organized into seven key elements:

• Housing
• Community Development & Communications
• Economic Development
• Land Use
• Parks, Recreation & Events
• Public Safety
• Infrastructure

Each goal is paired with specific objectives to guide actions and ensure alignment with community direction and City Council priorities.

The Comprehensive Plan, Your Vision, Our Mission, serves as both a roadmap for Mt. Vernon’s future and a call to action for the City’s leadership team.

View the plan

Designated  Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA)

Approved in October 2024

The City of Mt. Vernon has established a Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA) in the downtown district. This initiative allows patrons to purchase and carry alcoholic beverages within designated boundaries, helping to create a more vibrant and welcoming atmosphere.

By encouraging a relaxed and social environment, the City aims to increase foot traffic, support local businesses, and further revitalize the downtown area.

View the DORA information page
View the approved ordinance

Downtown Greenspace

Completed in 2024. Now open to the public!

The City of Mt. Vernon is excited to share that the new Downtown Greenspace is now complete and open to the public. This space is designed for a wide range of community activities, from casual picnics to large festivals, and serves as a welcoming gathering place in the heart of the city.

View the project rendering

View the completed project page here.

Housing Study

Completed in November 2023

This study estimates the need for future residential development in Jefferson County, Illinois. The purpose of the study is to establish a unified vision for future housing developments and provide a roadmap to achieve it. The study focuses on the residential, economic, and demographic status of Jefferson County and uses these findings to recommend the highest and best use for available land.

View the Housing Study

Illinois Public Act 97-609 Employee Compensation Report

In accordance with state law, the City of Mt. Vernon publishes an annual report of employee compensation. This report includes the total compensation package for each employee earning more than $75,000 per year, as required by the Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund.

View the Employee Compensation Report

Lead Service Line Inventory Report

In 2023, residents of Mt. Vernon participated in a Cross Connection/Service Line Material Survey, providing valuable information about the materials used in their service lines. The responses were compiled into a Lead Service Line Inventory Report, as mandated by the Environmental Protection Agency. This report supports ongoing efforts to ensure safe drinking water for the community.

View the Lead Service Line Inventory Report
Learn more about lead service lines in Mt. Vernon

Parks Master Plan and Market Study

Approved in February 2025

The City of Mt. Vernon has adopted a Parks Master Plan and Market Study to guide the future of Veteran’s Memorial Park and Lincoln Park. While the plan focuses primarily on these two parks, the analysis also evaluates activity and conditions in Mt. Vernon’s other parks to provide a complete picture of community needs.

The market study component helps assess current usage, demand, and future investment priorities, ensuring that park improvements align with resident expectations and long-term community growth.

Developed with input from residents through surveys and community engagement, the plan identifies strategies to enhance recreational opportunities, improve accessibility, and ensure long-term enjoyment of public spaces.

View the Parks Master Plan & Market Study