Arrow Ambulance has officially become the exclusive provider of 911 emergency services in Champaign-Urbana, following the recent exit of Advanced Medical Transport (AMT) from the area. This shift marks a significant change in the emergency medical landscape for the region, which has historically seen a mix of local providers.
The transition occurred after AMT announced its decision to cease emergency ambulance services in Champaign-Urbana effective November 15, 2025. The organization will now focus primarily on interfacility transfers for OSF HealthCare. This leaves Arrow Ambulance, which is part of Carle Health, as the only ambulance service responding to emergency calls in the area.
Safety Concerns on Local Roads
A reader recently raised concerns about the safety of a specific stretch of Interstate 57, particularly between Tuscola and Mattoon, which is perceived as prone to accidents. In response, Paul Wappel, spokesperson for the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), stated that this segment is currently rated as a “minimal or low safety tier” based on the latest statewide safety analysis. Over the past five years, an isolated section in Coles County has been rated in the “high” safety tier, with six reported crashes, none of which were related to winter weather.
IDOT’s proposed highway improvement program for fiscal years 2026-2031 includes plans to reconstruct I-57 from one mile north of Illinois Route 16 to the Douglas County line. Specific safety enhancements will be assessed during the project’s development, although a timeline for the construction has not yet been established.
Ice Activities Restricted at Local Parks
Queries have also emerged regarding ice skating and ice fishing at Kaufman Lake. Sarah Sandquist, Executive Director of the Champaign Park District, clarified that such activities are prohibited, citing concerns about water quality due to stormwater runoff. Similar restrictions apply at Crystal Lake Park in Urbana, where the ice thickness varies significantly, making it unsafe.
In contrast, the Champaign County Forest Preserve District allows ice skating and fishing at select locations, including Homer Lake and Middle Fork River. However, visitors are advised to assess ice conditions independently, as staff do not monitor thickness. Resources on ice safety are available through the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.
Construction Updates and Community Questions
Another inquiry involved the orange fencing surrounding certain trees near Weaver Park. John Zeman, City Engineer, explained that this fencing is part of the Bakers Lane Shared-Use Path project, currently on hold for the winter but set to resume in the spring. The fencing aims to protect existing trees during construction.
Finally, questions arose about the future of a partially boarded-up rental house at 57 E. Springfield Avenue in Champaign. According to the county property database, the property belongs to Linda Fotzler, while three adjacent vacant lots are owned by Neil Fotzler Enterprises. Phil Fiscella, managing broker at Abe Lincoln Realty, indicated that The University Group has plans to develop the entire block, although further details remain pending.
The evolution of ambulance services in Champaign-Urbana reflects historical shifts and regulatory changes in emergency medical care. Since the early 1960s, local businesses and nonprofit organizations have predominantly provided these services. Arrow Ambulance, founded by Ken Rominger in 1963, has played a crucial role in this landscape, evolving into the sole provider for emergency calls today.
The consolidation of ambulance services has followed various regulatory and competitive pressures over the years. In the late 1980s, Carle Health acquired Arrow Ambulance, further entrenching its position in the community. As the sole provider, Arrow faces the challenge of meeting the area’s emergency medical needs effectively.
With the recent changes, the focus will now be on how well Arrow Ambulance can serve the Champaign-Urbana community, particularly in light of the ongoing discussions about safety and quality of care.
