Galesburg wants to see if expanding Lake Storey beyond its current shores makes sense.
The city council voted Monday to approve a $50,000 feasibility study on expanding the 132-acre man-made lake. The lake is currently used for fishing and swimming, but enlarging it could open it up to recreational motorized vehicles and new lakefront development.
The lake was first created as a soft water source for the railroads nearly a century ago.
Councilman Bradley Hix said he's optimistic about the possibilities.
"I think this has the ability, if this is done right and the answers to those questions come back in a favorable light, to do a great bit of good for our city," he said.
The Edgewater Resources study will include preliminary cost estimates, real estate conditions, market trends, a concept master plan, and a recommended implementation strategy. The firm has undertaken similar projects in Decatur, Waukegan, and Chicago's 31st Street Harbor.
"We talked in the past about how we can grow this city, and I think this is one great way that could happen, potentially, if a developer becomes interested after the study's done," said councilman Larry Cox.
The feasibility study should be done in about 3 months.
