Lake County Gazette

Lake County has announced Envision 2050, a comprehensive long-range transportation plan aimed at guiding decisions and priorities for the next 25 years. Residents are encouraged to participate in a brief survey to help shape these priorities.

According to Lake County, Envision 2050 will direct how projects are selected and funded, assisting the county in preparing for growth, improving safety, enhancing mobility, and connecting communities. The plan encompasses not only roads but also biking, walking, and transit options. It is designed to strengthen Lake County’s ability to secure state and federal funding for transportation projects.

Public input is deemed essential in shaping Envision 2050. Residents can complete a short survey to express their priorities, with additional opportunities for feedback available through surveys, open houses, and public meetings. This input will be integrated into the final plan to ensure that transportation investments align with community needs and long-term goals.

Key elements of the Envision 2050 plan include focusing on safety and resiliency, sustainability and the environment, as well as connectivity through multimodal solutions that support the local economy. According to the Envision 2050 website, the plan will follow a four-phase timeline from late 2025 to 2026. It begins with public outreach and education, progresses through goal setting and scenario development, releases a draft plan for feedback, and concludes with a final plan incorporating community input for implementation.

The Lake County Division of Transportation (LCDOT) is tasked with constructing, engineering, planning, and maintaining county highways in compliance with the Illinois Highway Code. The division manages the county vehicle fleet, coordinates with township road districts, oversees federal transportation aid and local public transportation efforts. LCDOT reviews proposed roads for new subdivisions while performing additional functions required by state statutes and the county board. Its mission is to provide a safe and efficient transportation system that enhances mobility, economic development, and quality of life while upholding core values such as integrity, safety, community service, accountability, respect, innovation, and environmental responsibility.