By Howard Packowitz

NORMAL – The gathering place in Uptown Normal, between the Children’s Discovery Museum and the transportation center, will be known from now on as the Mark R. Peterson Plaza, named for the city manager who retired earlier this year after 20 years on the job.

Community leaders gathered Monday evening for the dedication of the plaza. Mayor Chris Koos said it’s important for future generations to know Peterson was the driving force behind Normal’s transformation.

“A lot of people are going to look at it, and they’re going to know exactly what it is. In 25 years, the inquisitive people are going to say, ‘Why did they name this after Mark Peterson? If they do any research, they’re going to understand why,”‘ the mayor said.

Since his retirement, Peterson said everyday feels like a Saturday. He said Normal will always be his family’s home.

“This is a tremendous honor, completely unnecessary, but very much appreciated,” Peterson said.

The town government paid Alan Roth Enterprises of Congerville $4,550 for the concrete etchings of Peterson’s name.

Howard Packowitz can be reached at [email protected]