City, County Agree to Open Chicago Street
Negotiations between leaders further Joliet's development
“Every downtown development plan the city has invested in indicates that reconnecting Chicago Street is key to revitalize downtown Joliet,” said Joliet Mayor Bob O’Dekirk. “The city has talked about this for years, but took no action to make it happen. I am thrilled that we have worked out this deal and can announce that reconnecting Chicago Street and building the city center square is no longer just an idea, it will be a reality. Thanks to our staff, councilman John Gerl, and our good friends at Will County for once again coming together to improve our great city."
As part of the negotiations, Will County has agreed to trade property with Joliet that will allow Chicago Street to open between Washington and Jefferson streets. Joliet will also receive Van Buren Plaza, where the former State's Attorney building now sits across from the historic Rialto Square Theater, on which to build a public square.