Will County Public Works Advances $1.9 Million Improvement for Wilmington-Peotone Road

Article Summary: The Will County Public Works and Transportation Committee has authorized a nearly $2 million contract for Phase I engineering services on Wilmington-Peotone Road. The agreement sets the stage for future improvements along the corridor between U.S. Route 45/52 and Center Road.

Wilmington-Peotone Road Key Points:

• Contract Award: The resolution approves an agreement with Alfred Benesch and Company for $1,989,737.00.

• Project Scope: The contract covers “Phase I” design engineering services, which is the initial planning stage required before construction designs or land acquisition can occur.

• Location: The work focuses on Wilmington-Peotone Road (County Highway 25) from U.S. Route 45/52 extending to Center Road (County Highway 19).

• Funding: The project will be fully funded through the County’s allotment of Motor Fuel Tax (MFT) funds.

The Will County Public Works and Transportation Committee on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, took the first procedural step toward upgrading a significant stretch of roadway in the Peotone area.

The committee voted unanimously to approve a resolution authorizing a professional services agreement with the firm Alfred Benesch and Company. The contract, valued at $1,989,737, is dedicated to Phase I design engineering services for Wilmington-Peotone Road (County Highway 25).

The engineering work will target the segment of the road stretching from U.S. Route 45/52 to Center Road (County Highway 19). While specific construction details—such as widening or intersection changes—are typically finalized during and after the Phase I process, this substantial investment in engineering signals the county’s intent to prioritize improvements along this corridor.

The project falls within County Board District 2. The resolution confirms that the entire cost of the engineering contract will be covered by Will County’s Motor Fuel Tax fund allotment, requiring no funding from the corporate general fund.

The measure was moved by District 8 Member Mica Freeman and seconded by District 4 Member Steve Balich. The committee passed the item as part of its consent agenda without debate or questions for the Director of Transportation. The resolution now moves to the full County Board for final ratification.