ROCKFORD, Ill. (WTVO/WQRF) – Rockford’s City Council agrees to extend the deadline for residents to pave their driveways and parking lots.

Residents now have until November 2021. The previous deadline had been November 1st, 2020. In May, the city posted to it’s Facebook page, alerting residents. Council members say the ordinance is needed, but want to come up with programs or grants that can help residents out financially.

“I believe there’s a need for aesthetics, and a need for our neighborhoods. We’re trying to reduce blight in our neighborhoods,” said 14th ward Alderman Joseph Chiarelli. “So, we just have to find the right fit for our residents, so it’s not over burdensome, and they’ll be able to adhere to the ordinance.”

Homeowners could face fines if they fail to make the change.