Highland Park Plans For 122 Major Construction Projects In 2026

HIGHLAND PARK, IL — Highland Park released its comprehensive work plan for the year, which includes information about upcoming construction projects.

The 2026 Capital Improvement Program includes over $40 million in infrastructure investments, a $6 million increase from the previous year. More than $17 million is planned for water and sewer upgrades, another $17 million for parking lots and bridges, and $6 million for facility improvements.

"It's a significant endeavor, and it certainly aligns with one of our core priorities, which is infrastructure investment," City Manager Ghida Neukirch said.

The proposed work plan for 2026 includes 122 major projects ranging from bridge repairs to forestry programs. Major projects are defined as significant public-facing initiatives that fall outside typical day-to-day operations.

The city's website offers detailed information on each project that the public can interact with. Residents are able to see what types of projects are planned in their neighborhoods or nearby.

Each major project is broken down by department. Some highlights from the work plan include:

• Sheridan Rd Sidewalk Project - This project calls for the installation of a new sidewalk along the east side of Sheridan Road from Roger Williams Avenue to Cedar/Dean Avenue. The project will include architect Jens Jensen aesthetic elements, including a façade and landscaping. The project is scheduled for construction in 2026 with landscaping in 2027.
• Lead Service Replacement Program - The city has already begun replacing lead water service lines in specific areas. Additional areas in Highland Park will have their services replaced in 2026.
• Pedestrian Bridge over US Route 41 - The city will replace the pedestrian bridge over U.S. Route 41 to improve safety and ADA access. Construction and engineering is expected to take place throughout 2026 and 2027.
• Annual Tree Planting Program - Each year, the city aims to repopulate Highland Park's urban forest with new parkway trees. Approximately 300 new trees are planted annually to replace those lost in previous seasons.

For more information on projects planned in 2026, visit the city's website.

Throughout the year, the city plans to share additional information about what is planned and what crews will be doing.