A Ride Along with Lake Forest’s Engineering Department

If you have driven through Lake Forest recently, you’ve probably noticed more construction signs and road crews than usual—especially along Deerpath Road. As one of the city’s most important streets, Deerpath is currently undergoing major improvements that have been in the works for over a year. While the detours may feel inconvenient, this project is an exciting step forward for our community.

I recently had the chance to speak with Nellyka Dennis, an Engineering Assistant with the City of Lake Forest, who shared insight into what’s happening behind the scenes.

“The Deerpath project has been a long time coming,” Dennis explained. “There’s a lot of coordination involved, and we’re working hard to make sure residents and business owners feel supported during the process.”

This project isn’t just about paving roads—it’s a full redesign that will improve traffic flow, update pedestrian walkways, and enhance the overall aesthetics of the downtown. As Dennis put it, “It’s a beautification project. It’s modernizing Lake Forest in a way that still preserves the charm we all love.”

But Deerpath isn’t the only thing the Engineering Department is working on. From improving stormwater drainage on Ahwahnee Road to helping plan more climate-resilient infrastructure across town, the team is always looking ahead. These projects often involve partnerships with other departments like Public Works, Community Development, and Water & Sewer Utilities.

Dennis also mentioned how technology is transforming the way engineering is done in Lake Forest. “We’ve moved beyond tape measurers and paper surveys. Now we use drones and lasers for precision and efficiency,” she said. This also helps the department keep residents better informed through digital updates and maps.

Safety is another big priority, especially for workers out on active roads. “It can be dangerous,” Dennis said. “We’ve seen close calls because people drive too fast through work zones. Just slowing down a little could make a huge difference.”

And as someone early in her public service career, Dennis reminded me how important civic engagement is, even for younger residents. “It starts at home. Parents who talk to their kids about why construction is happening, and why safety rules exist, help make our city stronger.”

As a City of Lake Forest intern, I’ve learned that city projects are about more than concrete and cones. They’re about long-term planning, teamwork, and making sure every improvement helps create a safer, more beautiful and more sustainable city.

So the next time you’re stuck in a detour, or driving past a work zone, know there’s a dedicated team behind it, working not just for today, but for the future of Lake Forest.