Few counties celebrate a bicentennial with as much creativity as Peoria County. Assistant County Administrator Shauna Musselman lights up when describing the community-wide art project that defined the county’s 200th year. Giant bison sculptures (“a playful nod to bi-centennial”) appeared across the county, each painted by local artists and weatherproofed by high school students.
The celebration culminated in “The Herd”, a large block party at Bicentennial Plaza, where residents gathered to admire the sculptures, enjoy local vendors, and honor two centuries of community identity. “It’s all on our website. It’s really cool,” Musselman says, a modest understatement for a project.
Peoria County is also investing heavily in digital communication. With residents voluntarily signing up for survey tools, the county is gathering better input on priorities. Accessibility remains a major focus. Musselman notes ongoing improvements to the county website and the unveiling of a newly renovated courthouse plaza, now dedicated as Bicentennial Plaza, which she hopes will become a beloved public gathering place.
Looking ahead, much of the county’s energy is centered on the 2026 budget, including important capital improvement projects. But Musselman isn’t letting the practicality of budgeting overshadow the need for connection. A new podcast series, Peoria County Distilled, pays homage to the region’s historic whiskey production while giving listeners behind-the-scenes conversations with elected officials and departments.
The goal is simple: help residents feel informed, engaged, and proud of the county they call home. Through art, tradition, storytelling, and a refreshed approach to communication, Peoria County is honoring its past while building a more connected future.
