Saunders Road project meeting engages 17 residents ahead of construction start in August

In a recent Board of Trustees meeting held on July 1, 2025, the Village of Riverwoods addressed several key infrastructure projects that are set to impact the community significantly. The discussions primarily focused on the Saunders Road project and ongoing road maintenance efforts, highlighting the village's commitment to improving local transportation while ensuring resident engagement.

The meeting began with an update on the Saunders Road project, which aims to enhance the roadway from Riverwoods to Duffy. A neighborhood meeting was held the previous week, where 17 residents attended to discuss project parameters. The village sent out approximately 100 notices to property owners within a 300-foot radius, demonstrating a proactive approach to community involvement. Residents expressed appreciation for the opportunity to engage in discussions and receive updates about the project. The village committed to providing regular updates through its website and direct notifications regarding any construction impacts, such as lane closures.

Construction is anticipated to begin in August, with Thomas Engineering overseeing the project. The village aims to ensure that residents are well-informed throughout the process, particularly as the project may affect local businesses, including nearby golf courses. The Board acknowledged the need to coordinate with these establishments to minimize disruptions during construction.

Additionally, the Board discussed the 2025 road program, which has been awarded to Chicagoland Paving. Work is set to commence imminently, with patchwork repairs scheduled for completion by Thursday. The repairs will address problematic areas in the Village Hall parking lots, which have been prone to flooding. The Board also plans to implement crack control, seal coating, and restriping of pavements later this year, with a proposal for a change order to ensure proper road markings on Port Wynd Road.

Trustee Jamerson raised concerns about the impact of construction on local golf courses, emphasizing the importance of timely communication with these businesses. The Board acknowledged the need for a construction schedule to facilitate better planning and minimize inconvenience.

In a related discussion, the village attorney brought up potential developments at the Orphans of the Storm site and the condition of the multi-use path along Riverwoods Road. The village is in talks with Lake County regarding improvements to the road and path, which could enhance connectivity in the area. The Board is exploring options for upgrading the existing path, which may involve collaboration with the county to achieve cost efficiencies during road work.

Overall, the meeting underscored the Village of Riverwoods' commitment to infrastructure improvement and community engagement. As projects move forward, residents can expect ongoing communication and updates to ensure a smooth transition during construction phases. The Board's proactive approach aims to balance necessary improvements with the needs of the community, setting the stage for enhanced transportation and connectivity in the village.