Join local leaders in discussing the Collins Street Prison land

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Oct. 17, 2025

FOR MORE INFORMATION: press@senatorventura.com

JOLIET – Local residents and state officials are seeking clarity over the management and future of a state-owned property currently leased to the City of Joliet through the Illinois Department of Central Management Services (CMS). The lease, now expired and under renegotiation, has become the focus of community concern due to questions about environmental stewardship, public safety, and oversight.

Those residing in the Collins Street Prison area have raised questions over the past several years about activity on the land. The meeting on October 22 at 6:30pm will hopefully address resident concerns and help find solutions. This community meeting will be held at the Hartman Recreation Center in Joliet. The meeting is open to the media and the public and will feature local leaders, including Joliet Mayor Terry D'Arcy and Illinois State Senator Rachel Ventura, as well as community members.

“I encourage all to attend and voice their concerns and thoughts about the property,” stated State Senator Rachel Ventura (D-Joliet). “SB1698 would allow a transparent transfer of land and ensure responsible land use on behalf of all Illinois taxpayers.”

The land around the Collins Street Prison in Joliet has been the subject of concern for area residents for some time. Collins Street Prison was decommissioned by the State of Illinois in 2002 due to budget concerns. At that time, any remaining incarcerated individuals were transferred to the now-shuttered Stateville Prison.

The abandoned Collins Street Prison was left in the possession of the State of Illinois for years as it continued to deteriorate. It also fell victim to vandalization, including arson, trespassing, unsanctioned use, and illegal dumping. The City of Joliet eventually signed an Intergovernmental Agreement (IGA) with the State of Illinois to lease the buildings and lands in 2017. The IGA stipulated that the City of Joliet would oversee maintenance, upkeep, safety, and prevention of further deterioration.

For several years, constituents have voiced concerns regarding activities on the land—including unpermitted recreational use, environmental alterations, and public access issues. While past city administrations have been criticized for a lack of transparency, current leadership has acknowledged the need for improved accountability and is working with state officials to determine next steps.

At recent meetings involving Mayor Terry D’Arcy, Senator Rachel Ventura, and Representative Walsh’s office, residents expressed interest in Senate Bill 1698, which would transfer the property to the Forest Preserve District of Will County. Supporters of the proposal believe such a transfer would ensure long-term environmental protection and transparent public management. Others have suggested retaining city oversight under a revised lease agreement that incorporates stronger safeguards.

The matter remains under review as stakeholders await updates from the state regarding the lease negotiations and the potential land transfer. A community meeting scheduled for October 22 will offer residents the opportunity to learn more about the next phase of the discussion and share feedback on how the site should be managed moving forward.