Will Co. Still Wants Public's Input On Transportation Plan, Deadline To Submit June 20

WILL COUNTY — Public input is still being accepted on Will County’s draft “Our Way Forward” Long Range Transportation Plan, a long-term planning effort that will guide the next 25 years of countywide transportation projects. Will County residents can share their feedback on the draft plan by visiting www.ourwaywill.co until June 20.

“Community feedback on this plan will help guide a vision for a safer and more connected Will County,” said Will County Executive Jennifer Bertino-Tarrant. “For over a year, we have been hearing from residents throughout the county on how we can address our transportation challenges and have been incorporating that feedback into this plan. We are seeking final input before this plan is approved and implemented.”

Will County began the planning process in September 2023, with a goal of creating safer streets, improved transit options, more effective freight management, and sustainable transportation investments. The draft plan offers recommended infrastructure improvements for all modes of transportation, including walking, biking, driving transit, and freight.

The draft plan includes 48 county roadway projects involving 160 miles of county roads and three roadway expansion projects. The projects include roadway improvements, transit connectivity improvements, pedestrian and bicycling infrastructure enhancements, bridge repairs and replacements, safety enhancements, and congestion reduction strategies.

“This draft plan is the culmination of nearly two years of extensive community engagement, data analysis, and collaboration across Will County,” said Will County DOT Director Jeff Ronaldson. “Public input has been key to making this a successful roadmap for the future. This final public comment period is a critical opportunity for residents to review the draft plan and ensure their voices are heard.’

Developing the draft plan involved extensive coordination between Will County DOT, municipalities, and townships across the region. An active advisory committee was formed to guide the process, representing 11 of the most populous municipalities, key township highway commissioners, local transportation organizations, the Forest Preserve, and regional leadership.

The project team incorporated the feedback from nearly 1,700 survey responses that were collected during the three waves of public engagement of the plan development. Residents also were able to engage directly with Will County leaders and the project team at pop-up workshops, virtual open houses, and stakeholder meetings.

Following the closing of the public comment period, Will County DOT will make final revisions based on feedback before presenting a final draft for approval.

Public comments can be made by visiting www.ourwaywill.co.