'Just The Beginning': Dangerous Downtown Manhattan Intersection To Become Three-Way Stop, Mayor Says

MANHATTAN, IL — Just weeks after a 13-year-old boy was fatally struck by a semi, a problematic—and dangerous—intersection in Manhattan has gotten the attention of the Illinois Department of Transportation.

Residents have been calling for action after the Oct. 20 death of Chance Hunnicutt, who was struck near North and State streets Oct. 20. Semi traffic has been a growing concern for the small community, with Hunnicutt's death emphasizing it.

The Illinois Department of Transportation last week told Village leadership that it will convert the intersection into a three-way stop, effective immediately.

As of Monday morning, traffic signage was not yet in place, but signage advising drivers of the change was visible. The stop signs went up early Tuesday morning.

"We understand that adjustments like this can be inconvenient at first," Mayor Mike Adrieansen shared on social media, "but this immediate action is being taken to prioritize the safety of our motorists and children."

It's a small but significant step acting as a salve on a healing community—though residents are calling for a stoplight, instead.

"Great news! I just hope those that blow through stop signs now, actually stop! I’d sign a petition for a light instead," one wrote on social media.

"I will take it," another said. "I live right at that intersection, and something is better than nothing."

Manhattan Police Chief Ryan Gulli applauded residents for speaking up and demanding change.

"We are happy to see IDOTs response to this urgent matter and glad to work alongside them and our residents who have assisted and been so vocal in helping us protect the motoring public and pedestrians," Gulli told Patch. "This is just the beginning of many changes and studies to come—it's a good place to start. One life lost is too many, and change is needed."

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Adrieansen addressed the need for change shortly after Hunnicutt's death.

"Our children deserve safe streets, protected crossings, and a town where they can move freely without fear," he wrote. "I know many residents have concerns about semi-truck traffic, especially near schools, parks, the library, and the community center. We have shared those same concerns with the Illinois Department of Transportation."

Village officials, he said, have met with IDOT on several concerns, including designating Route 52 as a size-restricted truck route. The size restriction has been in place since 2018, with maximum length set to 65 feet, Village Administrator Jeff Wold said. The size restriction, though, was not reflected in truck route maps until 2022 or 2023, Wold said.

The Village has implemented a truck enforcement officer, as well. Stops for size restrictions have increased, Manhattan Police Chief Ryan Gulli said. In 2024, stops were up by nearly 370, with 1,150 total that year. In 2023, 789 local ordinance citations were issued.

Additionally, an engineer is working on plans for crosswalks in the downtown area. Village officials previously requested that IDOT install crosswalks in the downtown, but Wold said the department required that the Village design them and submit plans to IDOT for approval.

IDOT is in phase 1 engineering for the intersection of Baker Road, to slow traffic coming into town, he added.

A traffic study exploring the possibility of a truck bypass around the downtown has also been commissioned. Specifically, the Village's Comprehensive Plan denotes using Cherry Hill Road to construct a bypass that would reroute truck traffic.

"During online outreach, 48 percent of respondents expressed concerns about Manhattan’s ability to effectively handle traffic along its major roadways, highlighting a need for better solutions," the plan reads.

"Redirecting U.S. Route 52 would reduce heavy truck traffic Downtown, creating a more pedestrian-friendly environment and enhancing safety for both residents and visitors. In addition to addressing current traffic challenges, the reroute would support the Village’s long-term growth, providing more efficient transportation routes for trucks while preserving the character and accessibility of downtown."

While some seem divided on the efficacy of making the intersection a three-way stop, it's noted that it's one step closer to creating a safer downtown.

"It's a start," one said. "Something had to happen, and you got it done with the help of its loyal Manhattan citizens. Though you and the board may pat your backs for being the people in charge, inevitably getting the credit, the residents have spoken and their voices heard. Keep hearing them out, and the town will prosper."

"Long overdue and I'm saddened it had to come to losing a child," another said. "Change shouldn't require a fatality."

Others worried about potential backups caused during heavy traffic times.

"I am with my neighbors and we think this is a bad decision," one wrote. "Traffic is going to be backed up now. It is bad enough when someone has to make a lefthand turn when on 52."

"Actually it would make far more sense to install traffic control devices (stoplights)," another wrote. "Stop signs are a cheap and easy solution to confuse a high traffic intersection. There is a very high volume of traffic on Route 52. Many of the individuals will be surprised at this sudden disruption in traffic. Seriously. Investing in traffic lights might cost more, but will be conducive in the continuity of traffic flow on Route 52, as well as the safety of pedestrians and motor vehicles. Stop signs are not the always cheap go to for traffic problems. People's lives are worth more."

Adrieansen reminded residents that this is a temporary fix and the Village will keep pursuing more.

"... this is for now and IDOT will be looking into what needs to be done," Adrieansen responded. "This is going to be done within two weeks, it usually takes months to get something like this. I want to thank IDOT for listening to our community and acting so quickly. You're right—more can be done and we will stay engaged with IDOT throughout their studies."

Adrieansen thanked the residents for their activism.

"This decision was made possible because of the emails, calls, and the voices of our residents who demanded swift action," Adrieansen wrote. "Your advocacy made a difference. This is just the beginning and we are fully committed to continuing improvements at this intersection to ensure it is as safe as possible and to prevent future tragedies."

The crash that killed Hunnicutt remains under investigation by the Illinois State Police. It's unclear at this time whether the driver will be cited or charged.