Transportation news, Hydrant flushing, Outdoor fall guide, and More
Dear Neighbors,
As we turn the colorful corner into fall, I hope this finds you, family and neighbors well.
Our latest big project -- Ride Lake County -- passed by the County Board on Tuesday, was years in the making. I was proud to support this consolidation of the many Paratransit ride services offered by a multitude of agencies.
What will Ride Lake County do? First of all, it will offer borderless service between townships (and into eastern parts of McHenry County) to anyone who can't access conventional transportation due to disability or mobility issues. You can get to stores, doctors and other services through PACE shuttle buses.
The new service will charge tiered fares: $2 for zero to five miles; $4 for five to 10 miles; and $6 for more than 10 miles. I advocated for the lowest-possible fares to make these rides affordable. Note: Lower-income riders may qualify for lower fares under an RTA program.
The new service, which we hope to get running by May 1 of next year, is designed to handle some 60,000 trips annually. We're not sure of the final cost of the program, which could range from $640,000 to $1 million a year to the county. We're asking for federal funds to offset most of that cost.
Ride Lake County wouldn't have been possible without the great administration and leadership of the Lake County Division of Transportation (LCDOT) and support of our current board. Thanks to all who made this happen. I was proud to vote for this new program.
In other transportation news, as part of a long-term program to improve multi-modal transportation, LCDOT has greenlighted engineering for a new bike path from Third Lake (Sextant Drive) to Almond Road. This will eventually connect the Washington Street path from Hainesville Road to the Woodland Middle School campus. It's much needed. We're working to connect existing paths and trails so that bikers and walkers can safely get from one area to another. This section was a priority.
A Hainesville Road path from Rollins Road to Washington is also being designed. It's been funded by the state legislature.
Public Works
Also on the engineering drawing board are two projects for the Gages Lake/Wildwood area. The water tower will be modernized and a water main replaced, most likely in the next two or three years.
On the west side of our district, the Stormwater Management Commission is awaiting state funding for a floodwater relief project for the Haryan Farms/Highland Lakes area. It's ready to go as soon as Springfield sends us a check to begin construction.
Local Events
I'm happy to note the return of the Grayslake Craft Beer Festival, which was cancelled last year due to the pandemic. A stunning variety of beers and ales will be offered along with food and entertainment off Whitney Street and Center streets in downtown Grayslake on Saturday, Sept. 18.
The largest such event in Lake County, the Beer Fest is sponsored by the Grayslake Chamber of Commerce and the Exchange Club (I'm a member). Come on by to say hello. I'll be volunteering when the event opens. We'll be raising money for local college scholarships. Suds for students!
Speaking of fermented hops, the Lake County Forest Preserves Beer Garden at Independence Grove is moving into its "Septemberfest" mode with musical events on Thursday nights, starting at 4 p.m. Even if you don't drink beer or ale, the wonderful staff has placed mini-fire pits on the beach, so if gets a little chilly, you can enjoy the autumn air.
If you want to get out and sample our splendid Forest Preserve trails, our Hike Lake County Challenge is in full swing. Brogan, my faithful trail buddy, insists on hiking all of the trails, but you only have to walk the equivalent of seven of them (some count as two) to earn a free medallion, walking stick shield or zipper pull. I told Brogan his hiking medal is for "dog of the year." He doesn't believe me but is enthusiastic about walking every possible trail. They become more stunning in autumn.
This year, we'll also be doing the "Ruck March" to raise money to prevent veteran suicides, which is a troubling problem for countless men and women who've served this country so selflessly. Please learn more by visiting my webpage to support the Grayslake-based Lake County Veteran and Family Services Foundation.
We need to support veterans and their families. In the last month, four Lake County vets have committed suicide, one of whom I knew. This is an extremely disturbing trend that we hope to address every way we can. The Veterans Assistance Commission of Lake County has several resources available. If you know a vet who's struggling, please have them contact our VAC.
Be well and enjoy the most beautiful season of the year. If you haven't gotten a COVID shot, all of our county clinics and pharmacies offer them (see below).
I am available to speak at any community event. If you have an immediate need for county services, please call 2-1-1.
Warmest Regards,
John
