Lake County Gazette

The city of Lake Forest has announced that the initial phase of the Deerpath Streetscape Project is scheduled to commence in mid-January 2025. The city has indicated that the construction will affect traffic and roads for local residents.

According to the city, the Deerpath Streetscape Project aims to enhance pedestrian safety, renew infrastructure, and beautify the area. This initiative will involve replacing a century-old water main, improving sidewalks, and repaving sections of Deerpath Road. Phase 1 of the project, which includes water main replacement, is planned from mid-January to late April 2025. During this period, there will be one-way eastbound traffic with no parking along the project area. Phase 2 involves streetscape enhancements and is slated for May to October 2025. During this phase, Deerpath Road will be closed to vehicles but accessible to pedestrians between Oakwood Avenue and Western Avenue.

To provide information and address questions about the upcoming project, Lake Forest will host "Cookies and Construction" sessions. These sessions are scheduled for Monday, January 6, from 1-2 p.m., and Wednesday, January 8, from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Depending on weather conditions, these will either take place at a table set up along Deerpath or in the Arcade Building Atrium at 272 E Deerpath.

The planning for the Deerpath Streetscape Project began in 2016 with preliminary discussions. In 2019, a City Manager's Advisory Committee was established to ensure community involvement by bringing together representatives from various interest groups to guide the project's direction. The final design aligns closely with the committee's recommendations to enhance both functionality and appearance of the streetscape. In 2023, Lake Forest secured a grant from the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) to support part of the project.

Under Mayor Dr. Stanford "Randy" Tack's leadership, Lake Forest has outlined a strategic plan focusing on fiscal stewardship, infrastructure development, public safety enhancement, community well-being improvement, and business vitality promotion.