The 71st Street and Peoria Avenue intersection underwent more than just being improved through two 1983 bond issue projects. It became history following the completion of Riverside Drive through the area, as the intersection now is known as 71st Street and Riverside Drive. The name change occurred when Riverside Drive was extended through the area in 1986. Peoria Avenue now intersects Riverside Drive north of 71st Street, and the original Peoria Avenue alignment now is a concrete cul-de-sac and grass. The second change, which is more obvious from the picture's point of view, has been the widening of 71st Street to six lanes in the area, which was completed in 1985. An intersection that once was a 90-degree bend now has become a major intersection with left-turn lanes and other amenities. Several restaurants have been built along 71st Street, including Burger King, Shoney's and McDonald's, Photo taken November 1987.
