Good morning, Peoria.

The Peoria Park District has proposed major renovations for the Owens Ice Center — built in 1980 and last updated in 2000.

Planned upgrades include new ice sheets, modern locker rooms, additional bleachers and an expanded concession area, with work set to begin in 2028 and funded mainly by bonds plus grants.

Bradley University announced a voluntary retirement incentive program for full-time employees aged 62 and older to support long-term workforce planning.

Eligible staff must submit signed agreements by July 22—fewer than 80 employees are eligible—as vacancies will be evaluated based on operational needs and strategic priorities.

Pekin’s Powerton Generating Station will stay open until December 31, 2029 after receiving an Illinois EPA extension—regional grid operator PJM requested the delay to extend its original December 31, 2028 closure target.

City officials purchased a 272-acre plot for $5.2 million near Quail Meadows Golf Course on July 7 and plan to use it for residential growth instead of a data center or solar farm; they will close on the property in October before inviting developers.

Illinois American Water and Aqua Illinois have asked regulators to approve rate increases to fund infrastructure improvements—if approved, typical bills in Peoria and elsewhere will see rises starting in January and late April, while a merger review between the companies' parent firms is set in November.

Peoria roads see work on the McClugage and Cedar Street Bridges and Route 6 repaving, affecting traffic this summer.

State officials are investing over $300 million for safer travel, with some projects ending this year while others continue until 2027 + 2028.

Between 11 and 30 people in Illinois contracted cyclosporiasis—an illness that causes severe diarrhea—from contaminated produce during the seasonal surge starting May.

The CDC and FDA are investigating the rise and urge residents to follow proper hygiene to prevent further infections.

Peoria Opportunities Foundation is set to renovate 500 homes in South Peoria after renovating five with federal funds + local support, aiming to provide affordable homeownership and rental options for low-income families in the 61605 area.

Stained Glass: Beginner Workshop

5:30-8:30 p.m. — Art at the Bodega — $85 per person — Unleash your creativity in a hands-on stained glass workshop and take home your own beautiful creation.

Live at the Five Spot: Holis7ics

6:30-8:30 p.m. — Contemporary Art Center of Peoria Illinois — $8 members, $12 nonmembers — Enjoy a high-energy performance from The Holis7ics blending rock, funk, and soul.

David Phelps Concert

7-9 p.m. — Five Points Washington Event Center — Find tickets online — Experience an uplifting musical performance by David Phelps.

Ceramic Charcuterie Board Workshop

1-2:30 p.m. — The Clay Den — All materials included — Create a personalized ceramic charcuterie board while exploring your artistic side.

Peoria County Fair

Various times — Exposition Gardens DMC HEADQUARTERS — Admission fee may apply — Saddle up for deep-fried delights, live entertainment, and exciting motorsports.

Whisper & Shout: Open Mic for Poetry

8-10 p.m. — Contemporary Art Center of Peoria Illinois — $5-$12 — Experience an inspiring night of poetry from diverse artists in a welcoming atmosphere.

Stoneware Glazing Class

6-8 p.m. — Art at the Bodega — Cost varies — Unleash your creativity with hands-on stoneware glazing techniques to create stunning, functional ceramics.

Paws to Read Session 2

10:30-11:00 a.m. — Fondulac District Library — Free entry — Kids can read with friendly therapy dogs from the Peoria Humane Society to enhance their reading experience.

Ice Cream Social and Ceramic Bowl Painting

1:30-3:30 p.m. — Art at the Bodega — $10 includes ice cream — Enjoy a creative afternoon painting your own bowl while savoring local ice cream.

Beginner 6 Week Wheel Throwing Class

6:30-8:30 p.m. — The Clay Den — $285 — Dive into pottery and learn wheel throwing while creating functional art pieces.