Mayor’s Column – May 2025
Update on Infrastructure Improvements Underway
Spring is in full bloom and that means construction season is about to begin! The Village and its contractors are projected to begin work in early June on important infrastructure improvement projects.
Washington Street Improvements Plan
Washington Street, between King Street and Belmont Avenue, will receive a full street reconstruction, installation of a new water main, lead service line replacements, and road resurfacing. In addition, new rain gardens will be added to improve stormwater management and enhance the neighborhood’s appearance.
This project is made possible through $1.2 million in grant funding. Our Congresswoman Delia Ramirez secured $601,439 in federal funds to replace substandard watermains and residential lead service lines along the street between Belmont Avenue and King Street.
An additional $350,000 will be provided by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) and $204,000 from the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District (MWRD).
Thank you, Congresswoman Ramirez and also to our state and local governmental partners, for helping the Village to upgrade our infrastructure and roadways. This project will provide a safer, more inviting, landscaped environment that will improve the quality of life for Franklin Park families and businesses
Robinson Road Subdivision
The Robinson Road subdivision will also receive major infrastructure improvements, including new water mains, lead service line replacements, and repaved roads. A new, attractive public space will be added at the corner of the subdivision on River Road and Robinson Road, creating a welcoming green space for the neighborhood.
South Industrial Area
The Village will soon begin improvements in the South Industrial Area, which includes Edgington Street, Fullerton Avenue, and Nevada Avenue east of 25th Avenue. This project will upgrade 3,200 feet of roadway with new asphalt and concrete pavement, curbs and gutters, drive aprons, sidewalks, and stormwater infrastructure. These upgrades will significantly improve safety, drainage, and overall road conditions in the area. The project is primarily funded by a $1.3 million DCEO grant. We appreciate your patience and cooperation during construction season.
Volunteer at the Fest
Our annual Franklin Park Fest is just around the corner. We have a great line-up of free entertainment, and a daily carnival, food vendors, and beer and wine garden. Volunteers are needed on Saturday, June 14 from 10 AM to 3 PM to help with Railroad Day events. Join us and you will receive a free meal on Saturday! To volunteer, call (847) 671- 8236. Get on board and join the fun! Please see page 4 of this newsletter for more information. See you at the Fest!
Mayor Barrett Pedersen