Question
I am not a gardener.  I have recently moved into a new construction house.  Between the front porch and sidewalk is an area approx. 20'X2.5'.  I asked the developer not to fill it in so it is approx. 8" deep from end to end.  

The soil is not the best, predominently clay.  I would like to get off on the right foot by filling the area with the right kind of soil from the beginning.  

I live in central Illinois.

Can you help?

Answer
With a garden fork loosen up the the exsisting clay soil or rototill it.  Then haul in nice loamy soil (loam is a mixture of 40% sand, 40% silt and 20% clay).  Add 1.5 cubic feet of composted steer manure and 3 cu. ft. good quality composted mulch.  Spread before mixing 1.5 lbs of 15-15-15, or simular fertilizer mixture.  Then rototill it all together and plant it.
Good luck
Bryan