County Authorizes Condemnation for Francis Road Project
June 3, 2025/
The committee authorized the State’s Attorney’s Office to proceed with condemnation cases for right-of-way acquisition needed for Francis Road improvements between Gougar Road and Interstate 80.
Eight property parcels are involved in the condemnation proceedings, including properties owned by the Joliet Park District, Commonwealth Edison Company, and several private property owners.
The Francis Road project will reconstruct the roadway to current standards and improve drainage in the corridor. Construction is scheduled to begin in early 2026 pending completion of right-of-way acquisition.
County officials said attempts to negotiate voluntary acquisitions were unsuccessful, necessitating the legal condemnation process.
Tue Jul 21
74° 55°
Mostly Sunny
Latest News Stories
Everyday Economics: Working more, falling behind
By Orphe DivounguyThe Center Square This week's data tells a clear story: Americans are earning more dollars that buy less. The economy looks fine on paper. It doesn't feel fine...
America 250: Celebrating presidential pets
By Bethany BlankleyThe Center Square As Americans commemorate the 250th anniversary of American independence, presidential pets are being celebrated as well. “Dogs, cats, horses, cows – as well as far...
Census Bureau plans 2030 count as 2020 lawsuit continues
By Brett RowlandThe Center Square The Census Bureau is planning for 2030, making decisions that will shape the distribution of federal funding that topped $2.8 trillion in fiscal year 2021,...
Support broadens beyond Harris, Newsom in Democratic primary poll
By Morgan SweeneyThe Center Square While former Vice President and presidential hopeful Kamala Harris remains the Democratic frontrunner for 2028, according to new polling, her support, and that for California...
Exclusive: Group warns labor bill allows govt takeover of union contract negotiations
By Thérèse BoudreauxThe Center Square Bipartisan legislation meant to speed up first-time union contracts would promote efficiency but also erode both employee and employer rights, a labor policy group argues....
House passes Mary Miller’s bill to stop childcare fraud
By Catrina Barker | The Center Square contributorThe Center Square (The Center Square) – The U.S. House of Representatives recently passed legislation sponsored by U.S. Rep. Mary Miller, R-Ill., aimed...
Gun rights, immigration to be decided at the U.S. Supreme Court
By Andrew RiceThe Center Square Several high profile cases on gun rights and immigration policy have yet to be decided by the U.S. Supreme Court as the court's current term...
POLL: Two years, out, Vance remains clear frontrunner for 2028 GOP primary
By Morgan SweeneyThe Center Square Two years out from the 2028 presidential primary season, Vice President JD Vance remains the clear frontrunner for the 2028 Republican presidential primary, the top...
America 250: National Archives bringing founding documents to cities nationwide
By Bethany BlankleyThe Center Square Multiple events are being held in the nation’s capital on July 4 celebrating the 250th anniversary of the United States. Not everyone will be able...
Poll spells disaster for Republicans in 2026 midterms
By Thérèse BoudreauxThe Center Square Five months out from the 2026 midterm elections, Republicans’ chances of maintaining control of Congress appear grim, new polling shows. The Center Square’s newest Voters’...
California sues over construction of alleged ICE facility
By Madeline ShannonThe Center Square California is suing U.S. Immigration & Customs Enforcement and other federal agencies to stop construction of what plaintiffs say is an ICE holding facility near...
Tax tribunal to remain funded
By Jim Talamonti | The Center SquareThe Center Square T(The Center Square) – An independent tribunal created to resolve taxpayer disputes with the Illinois Department of Revenue is expected to...
Illinois Quick Hits: Surveys continue after tornadoes, severe weather
By Jim Talamonti | The Center SquareThe Center Square (The Center Square) – Survey teams have been assessing storm damage after severe weather impacted parts of Illinois and surrounding states...
