HARRISBURG - Harrisburg-area residents are being encouraged by city officials to participate in a naming contest for the newly constructed bypass that allows motorists more flexibility as they pass through this Saline County community.

The less-than-one-mile stretch of road runs about four blocks from North Granger Street to U.S. 45. It's especially helpful for truckers who are traveling westbound on Illinois 13 and are attempting to turn onto Illinois 34. Sharp turns are eliminated and there is no contact with the traffic on the square.

Streets and public improvement commissioner Linda Mitacek is heading up the campaign and says residents are welcome to make their suggestions by phoning city hall at 253-7451; mailing her at city hall, 110 E. Locust St., Harrisburg, IL., 62946; or visiting the city's new Web site, www.thecityofharrisburgil.com.

"The idea is to allow the community to be a part of something special for our town," Mitacek said. "We will accept names through Jan. 8. Afterward, we will collaborate with the Illinois Department of Transportation to make sure everything is legal and then proceed in a proper manner."

Assistant IDOT Director David Phelps said he doesn't have any objections to the city naming the roadway, although it is temporarily being referenced as the Illinois 34 connector to assist emergency responders and dispatchers.

john.homan@thesouthern.com / 351-5805