Chicago Street Repairs Heading Into Final Stretch In Joliet: Photos

JOLIET — If you are heading to downtown Joliet this month, it's challenging with so many of the major streets being closed and torn apart for water main upgrades taking place. But one of the positives is that the main water upgrades along the normally busy North Chicago Street thoroughfare are heading into the final stages, according to the store merchants.

"Many downtown businesses, like Jitters, are understanding of the process," remarked Amber Duffy, whose family owns and operates Jitters Coffeehouse. "They know that with each project, it is paving the way for a transformation and once again having downtown Joliet become a destination for all."

The section of North Chicago Street undergoing ongoing street repairs is home to the Rialto Square Theatre, Jitters Coffeehouse, Chicago Street Pub, Mousa Greek Taverna, CUT 158 Chophouse, Richardson's Restaurant, Audiophil's Records, Blue Taco, Prison City Vintage and downtown Joliet's only plant store, the Internode Greenery and Home.

According to Joliet's website: "Due to construction on Chicago Street, the roads from Clinton to Cass will be closed as needed for construction activities, from June 10th to June 14th. The intermittent closures will take place between 6 a.m. and 4 p.m. Please take alternate routes as needed and if there are any questions please visit the City's webpage."

On Wednesday afternoon, concrete workers were pouring the new sidewalks on the backside of the Joliet Public Library.

Despite the ongoing constructions pains, loyal customers are still making a point to visit several of these popular downtown businesses, including Jitters, at 178 N. Chicago St.

"We just want to take the time out this morning to thank every customer who faces the downtown obstacle course to get to Jitters!!" the long-time Joliet coffee shop and restaurant posted Tuesday on its Facebook business page. "Our patio is done. The sidewalks are clean. Our door is open! Find a parking and make your way to us!"