On Tuesday, July 27, at 5:30 p.m., the City of Champaign invites the community to attend the unveiling of the street sign that designates University Avenue, between Neil Street and Chestnut Street, as Honorary Christopher Oberheim Avenue. Officer Oberheim was tragically killed in the line of duty on May 19, 2021, and the Champaign City Council passed a resolution on June 1, 2021, to designate and name this portion of University Avenue after Officer Oberheim to honor his memory and recognize his selfless service to our community.
“This is another important opportunity for our community to pay tribute to Officer Oberheim whose life was taken only because he chose to serve,” said Chief of Police Anthony Cobb. “The honorary sign will stand to represent the eternal recognition we owe our fallen hero for his exemplary service and ultimate sacrifice, and we hope the community joins us as we unveil the Honorary Christopher Oberheim Street Sign alongside his family.”
The ceremony will be led by Chief of Police Anthony Cobb and will include elected officials and law enforcement personnel. Members of the Oberheim family will be present as honorary City guests. The community is invited to meet at University Avenue and Chestnut Street.
The ceremony is anticipated to conclude by approximately 6 p.m. To prepare for and conduct the ceremony, the public should anticipate the following road closures starting at 1 p.m. Community members are encouraged to plan accordingly. Reopening will occur as soon as it is safe to do so.
- University Avenue between First Street and Walnut Street.
- Chestnut Street between Main Street and University Avenue
- Chester Street between First Street and University Avenue
Free parking will be available at the listed locations below between 5 and 7 p.m.
- The Illinois Terminal (parking lots east and west of the tracks)
- North First Street lot (north of the police station)
- Main and Market parking lot
Bus traffic will be maintained as much as possible via personnel at closures at First Street, Chestnut Street, and Walnut Street. The City appreciates the publics patience and understanding during this important community event.
Public Works will issue a reminder on the area road closures on Monday, July 26. In the event of severe weather, the ceremony will be moved to City View, located on the fourth floor of the Illinois Terminal. An announcement will be made if the change in venue is necessary.