Park Forest officials report that the village is prepared to handle winter road conditions, despite a regional shortage of road salt affecting parts of the Midwest. The Public Works Department began the 2025–26 snow season with about 1,970 tons of salt in storage.
Public Works Director Roderick Ysaguirre explained, “We started out this snow season with 90 percent of our dome being full. We now have about 900 tons in the salt dome and have just ordered 800 tons under our current contract.”
Ysaguirre noted that Park Forest typically relies on leftover salt from previous years rather than placing early orders. “So, we never ordered at the start of the season. We use salt left over from the prior season,” he said.
Currently, Park Forest has around 1,070 tons available, which includes both existing stock and pending deliveries. The village’s contract for this winter called for a request of 1,320 tons; it requires purchase of at least 80% (about 1,056 tons) but allows up to 20% more (up to 1,584 tons) if necessary.
Some communities and private contractors across the Midwest have faced difficulties obtaining road salt due to increased demand and supply chain issues. While Chicago-area officials acknowledge these shortages, they state that municipal supplies remain steady.
This winter has been more active than usual in terms of snowfall. The National Weather Service reports that Chicago has received above-average snowfall so far this season compared to last year; a typical full-season average for the region is about 38 inches.
Ysaguirre emphasized public expectations: “I think people expect crews to move snow and keep roads safe no matter the weather. Our goal is to make sure we have the materials and equipment to do that all season.”
The Village will continue monitoring weather patterns and adjust operations as needed to keep roads safe for residents and commuters through winter’s end.
Park Forest operates under a council-manager government structure with a mayor and six trustees as its governing body. The village pursues strategic objectives aimed at economic growth, innovation in municipal services, community health programs, and sustainability initiatives as described on its official website. Park Forest also provides educational opportunities through its Civic Leadership Academy and has received recognition for its sustainable practices in town planning.
