South Cook News

The Village of Park Forest will start a sanitary sewer rehabilitation project on Tuesday, November 18. The work is part of efforts to improve the aging infrastructure and maintain reliable wastewater services for residents.

Public Works Assistant Director Nick Christie said the project is expected to last about three weeks and will affect several residential streets, including Cunningham Street (north of Lakewood), Fir Street, Juniper Street, Krotiak Road, Forest Boulevard, and Norwood Boulevard.

“Much of our underground infrastructure has been in service for decades,” Christie said. “This project is part of our ongoing maintenance program to extend the life of our sewer system and prevent costly emergency repairs down the road.”

Crews will use temporary bypass pumping systems during the repairs so that wastewater continues to flow. Large hoses will be placed across roads, with ramps installed to allow vehicles to cross safely.

“These ramps are necessary so that the hoses used for bypass pumping don’t interfere with traffic or driveway access,” Christie explained. “They’re a short-term inconvenience that allows us to safely and efficiently complete the work.”

Minor traffic disruptions are expected during construction, but access to homes will remain open throughout the project. Christie advised residents to be careful when driving near work zones and watch for workers and equipment.

“We appreciate everyone’s patience while we complete this important work,” Christie said. “Investing in our sewer infrastructure today helps us maintain a higher quality of service and avoid larger issues in the future.”

The Department of Public Works aims to finish the project by mid-December if weather conditions allow.