Will County Gazette

Construction work on the Chicago Street Corridor in Joliet continues to progress, with several key updates provided by city officials. As of Friday, August 22, the new concrete entrance to the Ottawa Street parking garage has been completed and is now open for parking. The concrete base for a future brick paver pedestrian access from Ottawa Street to City Square has also been placed.

Underground soil cell chambers for topsoil have been finished in front of the library and along the west side of Chicago Street between Van Buren and Clinton Streets. Additionally, new fiber optic conduits have been installed along Washington Street, running from City Hall to the train station.

Looking ahead to the week of August 25, work will continue on underground conduit placements for electrical and audio video systems within City Square. Electrical improvements are set to proceed at various locations inside the Ottawa Street parking garage. Crews will also continue installing fiber optic conduits on Chicago Street between Washington and Jefferson.

Excavation is planned for the remaining sections of roadway base within City Square, while concrete work for sidewalks and planter curbs will take place in different areas around City Square. Parking restrictions remain in effect for northbound lanes on Chicago Street in front of the Rialto Theatre, limited to drop-offs and deliveries only.

Minor delays are expected due to temporary lane closures on Chicago Street between Van Buren and Clinton as construction equipment is positioned near ongoing city square projects.

City officials report that soil storage cells and electrical conduits are being completed behind curbs in the city square area. Underground soil cell structures are being installed below planter areas as well. Preparation work is underway on Van Buren west of Chicago Street for curb and gutter placements.