City planning for the future of the Metra Station area

The City of Oak Forest is planning for the future of one of its most important places: the area around the Oak Forest Metra Station. Centered on the crossroads of Cicero Avenue and 159th Street, the station area is already a hub for commuters on the Metra Rock Island line and Pace buses. The Oak Forest Gateway Subarea Plan aims to put in place a renewed vision for the future of land use and mobility in the area.

The plan builds on the City's 2008 Comprehensive Plan, updating its ideas to reflect today's needs. It will guide future development, transportation improvements, and investment in streets and public spaces around the station for years to come.

Building the Plan

1. Understanding Existing Conditions: The project team will start by looking at land use, development, transportation, and infrastructure in the study area to understand where things stand today.

2. Engage the Community: Through online engagement activities, in-person events, and conversations with stakeholders, the team will gather input from community members, who know this area best.

3. Shape the Vision: Community input will guide a shared vision and concepts for the station area, which will be shared with the public for feedback.

4. Draft the Adopt the Plan: The process ends with a draft plan, refined through public review and, ultimately, adopted by the City.

The plan works best when it reflects the whole community, so we hope you'll share your ideas and help shape the future of the Gateway area. Check the website for upcoming events, ways to share input, and updates as the plan takes shape.