Wear a Mask, Wash Your Hands, Watch Your Distance
There is a saying that you are blessed if you live in interesting times. No one can dispute that these last few months have been ‘interesting’. As I reflect on the turmoil and uncertainty of these past few months, I am encouraged by Franklin Park’s resiliency, compassion, kindness, and sense of community. I am grateful to our residents, businesses, staff, and the Board for how they have demonstrated the highest ideals of our great Village.
Visit Our Restaurants - Safely
Illinois has now entered Phase 4 of the reopening process in response to COVID-19. Indoor dining, zoos, museums, and some event arenas are open with restrictions and capacity limits. I know we are all glad to be able to get out and enjoy some of our favorite past times. We are also thankful for the economic boost this will give to our small businesses.
This reopening does not mean that the pandemic is over. Risks still exist. Masks must be worn when in public places, social distancing must be observed, and regular hand washing should be maintained. We have been able to achieve Phase 4 because our community and business owners were diligent in adhering to the guidelines which allowed for slowing the spread.
We must continue to be cautious and prudent during this phase or we will move backwards and erase the progress we have made. So please, enjoy Franklin Park’s restaurants, but remember to be safe and stay well.
Franklin Park Policing Update
Currently, there is a national discussion taking place regarding the policies, training, and practices of police departments. In Franklin Park, we must strive to ensure that our Police Department’s overarching mission is to keep our community safe while respecting the rights and dignity of all. I am committed to working with our Police Department to make sure that we are principled in our approach to training, incorporating innovation, continuing to embrace sensitivity, and promoting mutual respect. As we move forward, we must include community voices in our policies and build upon established relationships with our residents to ensure collaborative problem solving.
Our police officers are trained to the highest industry standards and will utilize techniques that de-escalate tense or dangerous situations to safeguard our citizens and our officers. Additionally, our police officers will continue to attend sensitivity and community relations training. Our Police Department does not stock tear gas, flash bangs or rubber bullets. Officers who carry any special weapons or equipment must be retrained and requalified annually. Most importantly, we will abide by the principle that it should be the last resort to take a human life.
We are undertaking a review of departmental policies including our use of force procedures and we are committed to enacting reforms, as necessary. We are open to modernizing our policies and providing training to ensure the highest level of safety for the public and for our officers. We are currently seeking grants to obtain state-of-the-art equipment that will increase transparency and accountability. We are committed to maintaining and enhancing an environment where we work in partnership with the community to make certain that everyone’s rights are preserved.
Western Access Milestone
The Illinois Tollway recently approved agreements with Canadian Pacific and Union Pacific Railroads that will pave the way for the I-490 Tollway project to accommodate roadway and interchange construction. This agreement will allow the construction to cross the Union Pacific Railroad at several points and achieve true access into O’Hare Airport from the west.
The Elgin O’ Hare Western Access Project is one the most important and impactful economic development and infrastructure projects in decades. Suburbs to the west of the airport will now be able to benefit from their proximity to the airport and experience a reduction in traffic congestion. In addition, the project will create thousands of jobs and increase tax revenue for the region.
I have worked closely with three administrations to bring this vital transportation project, which will solidify our prominence as the Crossroads of North America, to completion. I thank the Tollway Board and staff for their diligent work. This is a true example of regional cooperation. I thank all the stakeholders, public and private, for their commitment and tenacity. Looking forward to realizing the benefits for Franklin Park. Enjoy the summer safely.
Enjoy the summer safely.