March 28, 2024
Local News

RUSH forum looks at major projects in Will County

Residents United for Safer Highways holds its next public forum on Nov. 7 and will focus on the impact of major logistics parks planned in Will County.

The RUSH forum will be 6:30 to 8 p.m. at New Lenox Village Hall.

Topics for discussion include NorthPoint Development’s plans in Joliet and Jackson Township, Elion Logistics Park 55 in Wilmington and the CenterPoint Intermodal Center in Joliet and Elwood.

“We’re trying to address development that is coming and proposed development that may or may not happen,” RUSH spokesman Jim Murphy said. “We’re trying to look at how development may affect Will County highways, secondary roads and infrastructure.”

Also up for discussion at the forum are planned road and bridge improvements on Interstates 55 and 80. The Illiana Expressway and South Suburban Airport also are on the agenda for the fourth public forum organized by RUSH.

Presenters include Mary Craighead, a transportation analyst with the Illinois Economic Policy Institute, who will discuss traffic needs in Will County for the next decade and projections for employment and population through 2050.

Nick Palmer, chief of staff for the Will County executive’s office, will provide an overview of infrastructure development, truck routing and safety at rural intersections in the county.

Marc Poulos, executive director of the Indiana, Illinois & Iowa Foundation for Fair Contracting, will speak on planned development and actual projects, as well as their impact on existing infrastructure.

RUSH has also invited local mayors, county board members and state legislators to the forum.

Bob Okon

Bob Okon

Bob Okon covers local government for The Herald-News