Will County Gazette

The City of Joliet is seeking input from residents as part of the I-80 Des Plaines River Bridge Community Plan. The initiative aims to collect stories and memories from community members about the history and culture surrounding the I-80 Bridge area.

Residents are encouraged to share their personal recollections or stories passed down from others that relate to important places, people, or events near the bridge. The city emphasizes that this input is crucial for understanding how the I-80 corridor has affected the local community.

"Do you have recollections of places, people, or events that are important to understanding the history and culture of the community surrounding the I-80 Bridge?" asks the city in its invitation. "We want to hear from you! Whether it's your own memories or stories from someone you know, your input is vital to understanding the impacts of I-80 in the surrounding community."

Community members can participate by scheduling an interview either over the phone or in person. They can contact project organizers at (312) 588-6983 by voicemail or text message, or by emailing i80communityplan@joliet.gov.

According to city officials, these interviews will help inform a report with recommendations for projects intended to improve quality of life during upcoming repairs and expansion work on the bridge. "Your stories and recollections will inform a report and recommendations for projects to enhance the quality of life in the study area for implementation during the coming repairs and expansion of the I-80 Bridge. This is your opportunity to help shape the future of our community while preserving its past," states city communication.

Additional information about participating and signing up for updates on this effort is available at joliet.gov/i80communityplan.