Good morning, Peoria.

Residents may have their child's carseat installation checked during a free event held at the Central Fire Station (1-4 p.m.) on Wednesday, November 5.

Central Illinois faced worsening drought conditions as hot, dry weather continued with the U.S. Drought Monitor report showing that more than half of Peoria County experienced severe drought in the southern area—over 90% of Tazewell and 76% of Fulton counties had severe drought while Woodford County fared better with only 15% affected. Overall, 27% of the state was in severe drought, up from nearly 20% last week.

Illinois unveiled its six-year, $50.6B infrastructure plan on Wednesday that allocates $32.5B for roads and bridges and nearly $18.1B for air, rail and transit projects—this includes funding upgrades for the Peoria airport while about half of the funds come from the federal government and the rest from fuel taxes and fees. The plan covers work in all counties and is expected to modernize transportation systems and boost safety statewide.

Peoria Public Works will start a new two-week phase on Monday by milling, overlaying, and paving Adams Street from Walnut to Hamilton as part of its one-way to two-way traffic project.

The agency said the far two left lanes and the north-side parking lane will be closed until October 17—workers will perform the work in sections so the street remains partly open for traffic.

Peoria city staff asked the City Council to approve a 2.9% increase in stormwater fees next year to fund future and current infrastructure projects—this rate change could cost homeowners an extra $10 to $15 per year and follows a four-year pause that saved an estimated $100 to $115 overall.

The Bradley men’s basketball team received its Missouri Valley Conference schedule yesterday— the schedule features three opening December games and key matchups against Illinois State on January 17, Drake on January 7, and Northern Iowa on January 10.

The schedule shows a stretch of five games in 13 days from January 4 to 17 that will test the team’s strength.

Clay Hand Built Halloween Votives

5:30-7 p.m. — The Clay Den — All materials included — Craft spooky votives and embrace the Halloween spirit with creative clay fun.

Oynx the Sloth and Friends at the Bodega

12:30-3:00 p.m. — Art at the Bodega — $45 — An EPIC adventure to create a sloth-themed mug while meeting various exotic animals including a real-life sloth.

Fused Glass Spider Dish Workshop

6-8 p.m. — Art at the Bodega — Class fee not listed — Create a durable 6-inch spider dish perfect for Halloween décor.

Haunted Hill & a Glass to Fill

6:00-8:30 p.m. — Art at the Bodega — Drink included — Create a spooky Halloween painting while enjoying a glass of wine.

Swifties Night – New Album Release

6-8:30 p.m. — Art at the Bodega — $10 event fee — Create art inspired by Taylor Swift while enjoying her greatest hits in a fun, creative atmosphere.

Textured Pumpkin Clay Hand Building Class

1-3 p.m. — The Clay Den — All materials included — Create your unique ceramic pumpkin with fun textures for the fall season.

Whisper & Shout: Open Mic for Poetry

8-10 p.m. — Contemporary Art Center of Peoria Illinois — $5-$12 — Experience a vibrant evening of poetry and community with diverse artists performing live.

K-pop Pottery Painting Night

6-8 p.m. — Art at the Bodega — $10 entry — Create your own K-Pop inspired pottery while jamming to epic tunes and enjoying themed swag.

Moonlight Mischief Canvas Painting

6-8:30 p.m. — Art at the Bodega — Wine purchase available — Enjoy a fun-filled evening painting a spooky cat under the harvest moon.

Zootober: Halloween Fright Fest at Peoria Zoo

6-9 p.m. — Peoria Zoo — $12 per person — Experience Halloween thrills with family-friendly activities and spooky fun after dark.