Truck Traffic In Joliet: Something Is Being Done About It

JOLIET, IL — Will County Executive director of communications Mike Theodore issued a press release on Tuesday letting everyone know that Will County and City of Joliet officials have begun discussions with the Illinois Department of Transportation on reducing truck traffic on local roads.

These discussions kicked off on Jan. 31 with a meeting between the Will County Executive Office, Mayor of Joliet Terry D’Arcy, State Representative Larry Walsh Jr., and Secretary of Transportation Omer Osman.

“I look forward continuing these productive conversations on reducing truck traffic on local roads throughout Will County,” Will County Executive Jennifer Bertino-Tarrant remarked in Tuesday's press release. “With 3.5 percent of the nation’s GDP passing through Will County and a steady increase in population in our communities, residents have experienced increased congestion on our roadways over the years. These conversations are an important step in addressing these challenges.”

Secretary of Transportation Osman heard about the need to prioritize rerouting freight traffic throughout Will County to minimize usage of roadways that primarily serve residential populations.

“Reducing congestion and increasing safety on our roads is a top priority for the City of Joliet,” Joliet Mayor Terry D’Arcy declared. “I appreciate Secretary Osman and his team for meeting with us to discuss short- and long-term solutions to the challenge of increased local truck traffic.”

According to Theodore's press release, reducing truck traffic on local highways and roadways has long been a regional priority. Residents and local officials have expressed concerns about safety, congestion, and air quality issues related to increasing truck traffic in residential areas.

"Addressing truck traffic is the key to jumpstart development in downtown Joliet and the surrounding areas," said State Representative Larry Walsh Jr. "It will improve access for residents and tourists, save taxpayer money by decreasing road maintenance costs, and improve safety for pedestrians and motorists. I want to thank Secretary Osman and IDOT staff for being willing and active partners in this effort."

Residents who are interested in sharing their opinion about roads and transportation in Will County are also invited to participate in Will County’s ongoing “Our Way Forward 2050 Long Range Transportation Plan” development. Two virtual open houses will be held online on Tuesday, Feb. 6 from 6-7 p.m. and on Wednesday, Feb. 7 from 12-1 p.m. Residents can also take a brief survey about travel and use the online mapping tool to pinpoint areas of concern in Will County.

Participate and learn more at www.OurWayWill.co.