North RIVER SIDER
INVESTING COLL ABOR ATING AND GROWING
Now is the time to take pride in a thriving North Riverside
New and stronger partnerships with county, state and federal leaders have propelled North Riverside forward and turned valued projects and plans into reality On July 15, the Mayor and Board of Trustees, alongside project partners from the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago (MWRD), unveiled an improved municipal campus full of green amenities aimed to protect our environment and mitigate local flooding The completion of this project marks North Riverside’s first green infrastructure project on record and one of the largest partnership projects to date for the MWRD.
The MWRD contributed $1 28 million toward this landmark $1 53 million green infrastructure project Six asphalt parking lots located at the Village Commons and police, fire and public works departments (pictured top right), totaling 71,000 square feet of non-permeable pavement, were converted into new green parking lots designed to capture and store up to 539,000 gallons of water during any rain event Green infrastructure manages stormwater by mimicking nature. It captures and stores water naturally where it falls and allows stormwater to infiltrate into the ground before entering the sewer system This reduces the amount of water flowing through sewer systems that are often overwhelmed during intense rain events Green infrastructure can be an effective way to manage and reduce stormwater runoff and improve the
water quality of area rivers and streams. “The Board of Trustees and I are proud to unveil these new permeable paver parking lots as we are committed to investing in North Riverside and finding natural solutions to address local flooding, residential backups and other environmental issues,” said Mayor Joseph Mengoni. “The installation of these new lots will not only naturally divert stormwater from the Village’s combined sewer system, but it will also recharge our groundwater and safeguard our rivers and natural water resources from pollutants during large rain events.”
“We congratulate and thank North Riverside on this remarkable investment toward green infrastructure and community resilience,” said MWRD President Kari K Steele “Because of this expansive coverage of six green parking lots, we will have better protection from future storms, attractive community spaces and cleaner water in the Des Plaines River and beyond ” State Rep Abdelnasser Rashid also commended the Village and MWRD for their leadership and vision “Tackling climate change by building resilient infrastructure begins in our communities and neighborhoods. I am committed to working with local officials and stakeholders in the region to continue making progress towards a more sustainable future ” Joining Rep Rashid, MWRD officials, Mayor Mengoni and Village Board of Trustees was 16th District Cook County Commissioner Frank Aguilar.
from the mayor
Homeowners and businesses: An investment with huge retur ns
Connect with Us
Village Hall: 708-447-4211
www.northriverside-il.org
Non-Emergency NR Police: 708-447-9191
Non-Emergency NR Fire: 708-447-1981
Public Works: 708-762-5885
Community Development: 708-762-5900
Parks & Rec: 708-442-5515
recreation@northriverside-il org www facebook com/ NorthRiversideRecreation
Instagram: @villageofnorthriversideparksnrec
2024 Board meetings
Village board meetings take place in the Council Chambers on the first and third Mondays of each month, except in the months of July, August and December when meetings are only scheduled once during those months
Upcoming dates are:
August 19
*Tuesday, September 3
September 16
October 7 and 21
November 4 and 18
December 16
“Coffee” Connection
Stop in for coffee and conversation with the Mayor, Trustees and staff
October 19, 2024
10 am in the Council Chambers
Join us. We’re excited and proud of the huge strides we are making for North Riverside in every aspect of village government The Board of Trustees and I are focused on making investments in North Riverside that will benefit residents for years to come. I encourage everyone to invest WITH us as we forge ahead and plan for improvements that are essential for a vital, thriving community. When homeowners, landlords, and businesses make a conscience effort to invest in their community, no matter how small, everyone profits Here are some key updates on major projects my administration is currently working on Des Plaines Avenue Lighting Project. After months of planning, I am happy to report our new street lighting replacement project along the Des Plaines Avenue corridor (Cermak Road to 26th Street) is entering the construction phase Last month, IDOT approved the Village’s design engineering and environmental submissions and has targeted a letting date of late September. Construction will begin shortly thereafter with an anticipated completion date in early 2025 Pictured at the left is a sample of the custom light fixture designed for this corridor Not only will these new light poles enhance public safety with improved overhead street and pedestrian lighting, it will also add a unique decorative element to the streetscape with custom flower baskets, overhead banners and lighted holiday decorations throughout the year Anticipated cost of this project is approximately $1 million, with the Village securing 70% or roughly $700,000 in federal Surface Transportation Funds to offset this expense Police Station Improvements. Another project currently underway and paid for through grant funds is the planned building and ground improvements to the Police Station. $300,000 in state grant funds will be used to pay for essential tuckpointing to the exterior of the Police Station and the installation of new security fencing behind the Police and Public Works Departments to safeguard access to restricted areas and critical public infrastructure. This work is expected to begin in the near future.
Welcome to North Riverside Signs. The third and most exciting project is the installation of new community entrance signs Funded by a $250,000 state grant, I cannot wait to unveil the final designs very soon! The scope of this project includes the design and construction of new community entrance, welcome and wayfinding signs throughout our business district and major entrances, including the Village’s municipal complex and campus
I look forward to sharing more updates on these projects as they are all key components to an economic development campaign to position North Riverside for future growth and vitality. As we strive to serve you better, please take a few minutes to complete two short but valuable surveys: the Rec survey (recently delivered to all homes) and the comprehensive land use plan survey available online at https://www.research.net/r/NorthRiversideCommunitySurvey or see page 7 for the QR code Your input will impact future programs and services As we continue to thrive, let us embrace the community spirit of “Growth with Pride.”
Mayor Joseph Mengoni
| residents making lasting impressions |
“What an incredible opportunity” ALYSON HAAS CREATES NEW VILLAGE BRANDING LOGO
A longtime resident of North Riverside, Alyson Haas attended Komarek and Riverside-Brookfield High School and went on to earn a Bachelor ’s Degree-Graphic Design sequence at Illinois State University. Currently, she is a freelance graphic designer still living in North Riverside with her husband and two sons. “Aside from enjoying time spent with my family and friends, I love spending any free time being creative,” explains Haas
“After my logo design was chosen for the 100 Year Anniversary contest, Sue Scarpiniti, Village Administrator, reached out to collaborate on the new branding logo for Village,” said Haas. “I have always felt North Riverside to be a nice little urban pocket among natural surroundings. This is what inspired me when creating the new logo, as I incorporated design elements to simulate the movement of water and paths. These are a representation of the Des Plaines River, creeks, and the pedestrian paths and trails scattered throughout our Village. The cluster of leaves represent stability and growth, all of these elements being an everlasting part of our community. What an incredible opportunity this has been to play a small role in the huge strides our Village is making toward future growth.”
The new logo will play a key role in the Village’s economic development campaign for years to come, conveying all of the historic characteristics and natural beauty of the town in a modern way. “This logo embodies the spirit of North Riverside,” Mayor Joseph Mengoni said with great pride. “I believe it exemplifies everything that we are— a wonderful community, flowing, growing and evolving, making it an ideal place to live, work and visit. As a resident, Alyson truly captured the essence of the community. I am also excited to announce that new logo has been a huge inspiration for the Village’s new entrance signs that are currently in the design phase. Once completed, they will be prominently displayed through the Village.”
Thank you
Mayor, Board, Neighborhood Services applaud the Village’s “Ultimate Angel”
At the regular Neighborhood Services meeting on May 28, Mayor Joseph Mengoni made a special presentation and grateful remarks “Carol has given numerous Angel Awards to our residents but, at the end of the day, she is the ultimate angel, taking a concept and shaping it into a program that proves one person can make a difference.” A one-of-a kind glass plaque was engraved with these words: Making The Difference Awarded to Carol Spale for your loyal dedication and unwavering commitment Thank you for your significant contributions toward our goals and your indispensable support of our mission. Ultimate Angel Award 1992-2024.
Pictured, Carol displays her award, surrounded by a grateful Mayor and Board; left to right, Trustees Fernando Flores, Terri Sarro, Nick Tricoci, Mayor Joseph Mengoni, Trustees Jason Bianco and Debbie Czajka
PARKS & RECREATION special events
We’re partnering with the North Riverside Public Library!
holiday special events!
Breakfast with Santa dec. 8
Santa’ s Day Care Dec. 14
Noon Year’ s Eve! dec. 31 sign up
Call Parks & Recreation at 442-5515 or stop in to sign up!
The fall flea market Sunday, september 8, 9am-2pm
Clean out your basements, attics and garages and sell your “precious treasures” at the annual Flea Market Vendors must provide their own tables and chairs. Event will be held rain or shine on the front lawn of the Police Station and Commons front lawn. Registration deadline is Sept. 3. Fee is $25 per space.
Holiday Bazaar: a Festive Experience! Sunday, october 20, 9am-2pm
It’s the ultimate buying and selling event the Village Commons will host some of the most talented crafters in the area. Interested in being a vendor? Register early. Your payment includes a space with a table and two chairs. In the gym. Fee is $30/$38. Ages 18+.
Pumpkin Patch@the commons monday, october 28, 3:30-5:30pm
Find the perfect pumpkin and decorate it on the spot just in time for Halloween. Each registration comes with a pumpkin of your choice from our pumpkin patch. Then carve it, paint it or get it outfitted with a light Only those picking out a pumpkin need to register Family event; adult supervision is required. Ages 1 and up. At the Village Commons. Fee is $9/$11.
FREE! dia de los muertos event friday, november 1, 3:30-5:30pm
North Riverside Parks & Recreation will partner with the North Riverside Public Library for this special event with a mariachi performance in the Commons gym. Decorate calaveras and add a picture of a departed loved one to the community ofrenda.
turkey bingo! Always a sell-out event! friday, November 22, 7-9pm
Bring the family to the Commons gym! Win your Thanksgiving turkey or many other prizes. Your registration includes one packet of cards but you can purchase extra packets at check-in. Purchase tickets EARLY as this is one of the most popular family events. Concessions will be available for purchase Bring your Bingo markers and small bills for the concession stand. Deadline is Nov. 15 or sooner if the event sells out.
holiday photo shoot with Santa! Saturday, november 16, 9am-2pm!
Get ready for holiday card season with a fresh family portrait. A professional photographer will take 4-6 posed portraits Photos will be given over on a flash drive to print, post or save. Santa will be available from 9am-Noon. Pets are welcome. This special event is at the Village Commons. Fee is $32/$40.
mail your letters to Santa! november 22-December 15
Drop off your letters to Santa in the North Pole mailbox in the Commons lobby. If you add a return address, Santa will respond!
S c a re c r o w C o n t e s t 2024 ! M a r k Yo u r C a l e n d a r ! A u t u m n Fe s t & C h i l i C o o k- O f f Fr i d ay, S e p t. 20
Enter the SCARECROW CONTEST!
Pre-register by Sept. 13. It’s easy and free.
• Call the Rec Office, 442-5515
• Email: Put Scarecrow Contest in the subject line; include your name, NR address, phone number and email to: Recreation@NorthRiverside-il.org.
• Submit an online form from the Village website at northriverside-il.org. Form is on the Parks & Rec page.
1st Place wins a FREE vehicle sticker!
2nd Place gets a gift card to Taqueria La Penca; 3rd Place, a gift card to Chef Shangri-la. Pictures taken on Sept. 16 will be posted on the Rec Facebook page for viewing and voting. Entries need to be visible in the front yard by Sept. 13.
Don’t miss our ANNUAL AUTUMN FEST & CHILI COOK-OFF Friday, Sept. 20, 6:30 to 9 pm at the Village Commons. The Jolly Ringwalds Band will perform from 6:30-8:30 pm, bringing the ultimate 80’s experience to North Riverside. Their show featuring the best dance, rock and new wave will keep everyone on their feet!
Check out the Kids Fun Zone, face painting, balloon artist, inflatables, entertainment, delicious food, and, of course, free chili samples. Vote in the People’s Choice Chili Cook-Off among Village departments, local civic groups, churches and schools! Winners of the Scarecrow Contest will also be announced. Mo n a rc h Fe s t/E l Fe s t
The Village, in partnership with MWRD, is proud to host this tival Festival de la Monarca the event celebrates the monarch butterfly’s more than 2,000-mile migration from Canada to Mexico and brings awareness to monarch onservation. The migration of monarchs eaks to survival and transformation, while ognizing the long journey immigrants take. his symbolism is heightened during Hispanic Heritage Month
Join us at Commons Park on Sept. 28 from 10am-2pm. We will be providing information on many community resources and services and residents can enjoy great food, live music and other activities that will be part of this very special occasion!
winter
save the date
You don’t want to miss Winter Fest 2024 set for Wednesday, Dec. 4 from 6-8pm at the Commons. Join us as we kick off the holiday season with our Tree Lighting Celebration, holiday music, winter activities, refreshments, festive lighting and, of course, Santa Claus. Tree lighting at 6:30 pm sharp!
residential flood prevention assistance
VEHICLE STICKER RENEWAL WILL BEGIN AUGUST 15
Vehicle sticker deadline: Sept. 30 ESSENTIAL Info
Residents are reminded that ALL vehicles registered with the State of Illinois to a North Riverside address must display a Village vehicle sticker. New residents have 30 days to register their vehicle with the Village. Fees double after October 31st for all vehicles not properly registered by September 30. Visitors wishing to park overnight must have a overnight visitor parking permit hanging from their rear view mirror. These permits are not reusable and are only good for one night.
The Village is committed to assisting residents in mitigating flood risks through the new Residential Flood Prevention Assistance Program
Applications are currently being accepted. This program offers financial assistance to homeowners for flood prevention system installation. Funding is available on a cost-share basis, with maximum limits based on the type of system installed
n Back Flow Prevention/Clean Check Valve: 50% up to $1,000.
n Bypass Pump and Reservoir/ Lift Station: 50% up to $2,000
n Overhead Sewer System: 50% up to $3,000
Only owner-occupied single-family dwellings are eligible. Work must be completed by a licensed plumber and permitted by the Village
More information on the Residential Flood Prevention Assistance Program is available on the Village website at www northriverside-il org
transportation options for senior and disabled residents
When Pace recalled their buses, our senior bus program came to an end, leaving residents seeking other alternatives Mayor Joseph Mengoni assures seniors and disabled residents that every effort is being made to bring the service back, though it may take some time Until then, the Village has compiled this list of resources
All services require pre-registration with each individual agency; in some cases, it could take weeks to complete the agency’s enrollment process but once enrolled these services are convenient, affordable and reliable People Care. Call 708/442-1223. Must be 65+ for medical/healthcare and necessary errands Registration required 1) Volunteer Transportation Program, request one week in advance (minimum 72 hours), available Monday-Friday by appointment Free, donations encouraged. 2) Voucher Taxi Program, cost is $5 for $10 worth of rides.
3) Weekly Co-op Grocery Shopping trips vary. Payment is free; donations encouraged. Interfaith Community Partners. Call 708/354-9328. For seniors’ medical/healthcare, grocery shopping and necessary errands Mobility devices limited to walkers and canes (no wheelchairs or scooters) Registration required Allow 2-3 weeks Volunteer Transportation Services must be scheduled by phone 7 business days in advance. Offered 7 days a week. Cost is free but donations are encouraged.
Proviso Township Senior Services Call 708/449-4307 For Proviso Township residents ages 60+ for medical/healthcare and necessary errands Register online at www provisotownship com; at the office, 4565 W Harrison in Hillside; or call for info Schedule at least 48 hours in advance Vehicles are not equipped with a lift for assistance. Free; donations encouraged. Available Monday-Friday, 9:15am to 3pm. ADA Paratransit Services Call 312/663-4357 For the disabled for medical/healthcare, shopping, necessary errands, religious service, etc To apply, call the RTA’s certification program, 8am-5pm, Monday-Friday Process takes 6-8 weeks to complete If you are deemed eligible, you will receive a certification letter, customer guide and an RTA ADA Paratransit Permit ID Card.
PLANNING FOR OUR FUTURE: HELP GUIDE THE DECISION-MAKING
The Village is embarking on the development of the town’s first strategic and comprehensive land use plans. The NIU Center for Governmental Studies was selected to guide us on this process. These plans se the framework for future goals, objectives and polic that prioritize how we invest in our community. To ensure that these plans reflect the wishes of all stakeholders (residents, businesses, and communit organizations), simply scan the QR code to the right with your smartphone camera to access the survey which is only available online through mid-Septembe
Scanning this QR code makes taking the survey even easier
ESSENTIAL Info your input is essential
residential garbage rate increase
As part of the budget deliberations for the 2024-2025 fiscal year, Village staff evaluated the bi-monthly garbage rate to determine whether the existing rate was sufficient to generate the needed revenues to support anticipated operating expenses over the next three years
On July 15, the Village Board approved a multi-year plan to phase in a garbage rate increase to cover added costs while aiming to keep it affordable. The new tiered rate structure will allow residents time to plan for this added household expense
Effective Date
Bi-Monthly Rate
Current $48
October 1, 2024
May 1, 2025
May 1, 2026
$50
$52
$54
The proposed impact to each singlefamily household totals $12 per year.
Important fall/winter pickup dates in 2024
n Curbside Yard Waste Collection
The last yard waste collection for all resident grass clippings, bush trimmings, weeds, leaves, etc is Saturday, November 30 Yard waste tags are free of charge and are available at the Village Commons during business hours.
n Chipper service ends November 12 Place your cuttings at the curbside on Monday Public Works will not pick up debris left from contractors This service is intended for minor trimming, not complete tree removal
n Holiday Garbage Collection Days
For the remaining 2024 holidays, all collections will be on these Saturday dates.
Holiday Saturday Pick-Up
Labor Day September 7
Thanksgiving November 30
Christmas December 28
Note: Columbus Day and Veterans Day do not affect regular garbage service
reminder: recreation survey deadline is august 23
Providing exceptional parks, facilities and recreational programs for all ages to enjoy has been a priority for the Village since 1923
Our first-ever Parks & Recreation survey was hand-delivered to all houses and multi-family units because every resident’s voice matters. This survey will not only identify parks and recreation needs our community has deemed important but it will also help establish key priorities for the future so your response is important to us.
Public Research Group, a local independent research firm, has been selected to conduct this survey All responses will remain confidential
Respect the law
YOU’VE BEEN WARNED
This last 4th of July season witnessed a surge in fireworks violations, as North Riverside Police issued numerous citations and residents could face substantial fines. So, in the spirit of public safety and fair warning the NRPD is urging residents to respect the law. The use of illegal fireworks is strictly prohibited under Illinois law and local ordinances. Violators may face fines and potential criminal charges. Furthermore, illegal fireworks pose a severe risk of injury to both users and bystanders. Fireworks-related injuries can range from minor burns to lifethreatening conditions such as severe burns and even amputations. Fireworks also significantly increase the risk of fire. They can easily ignite dry grass, trees, and structures, leading to uncontrolled fires that can spread rapidly. These fires not only cause extensive property damage but also endanger lives.
Finally, setting off fireworks after 10pm is inconsiderate to your neighbors and a violation of local noise ordinances. The loud explosions can disrupt your neighbor ’s peace, causing distress to children, the elderly, and to pets. “We all bear the responsibility to ensure the safety and well-being of our neighbors,” said Police Chief Christian Ehrenberg. “We urge all residents to attend our community fireworks displays instead of setting off illegal fireworks. By doing so, we can all enjoy celebrations without compromising the safety of our community. Please report any illegal fireworks activity to us by calling the non-emergency police number at 447-9191 and help prevent potential injuries, fires, and disturbances in our neighborhoods.”
North Riverside Police Department ESSENTIAL SAFETY CONCEPTS FOR CHILDREN
As parents and guardians, it’s vital that we teach our children essential safety concepts in a way that empowers them without causing fear While it’s important to make them aware of potential risks, our goal should be to provide them with the knowledge and confidence to navigate various situations safely. The following age-appropriate guidelines are offered by the North Riverside Police Department with that goal in mind:
Kindergarten-2nd Grade
Teach kids about basic pedestrian safety, like using sidewalks and crosswalks, and looking both ways before crossing the street Ensure they always wear a properly fitted helmet and safety gear for bike riding.
Introduce the concept of “stranger danger ” Teach them to never accept rides, gifts, or help from strangers, and to always stay close to a trusted adult
Identify safe places, such as a trusted neighbor's house or a spot at school where they can go if they feel unsafe
Consider traffic and parking lot safety Use designated drop-off and pick-up zones. Ensure your child enters and exits the car on the curb side, away from traffic.
3rd-5th Grade
Teach them the basics of online safety, monitor their online activity and guide them in understanding safe online behavior. Remind them not to share personal info, such as their full name or address Encourage them to tell you about any uncomfortable online interactions
If your child walks or bikes to school, ensure they understand and follow the rules of the road, wear a helmet and know to ride in the same direction as traffic
Reinforce the importance of avoiding strangers and encourage them to stay with friends when walking or biking. Make sure they know where to go if they feel unsafe and how to dial 911 or contact you or another trusted adult
6th-8th Grade
Online safety becomes increasingly important Discuss the dangers of sharing personal information, the importance of privacy settings on social media and to be wary of online strangers.
Make sure they know the safest routes Emphasize the importance of staying alert, not using phones or headphones while crossing streets.
Encourage them to stay in groups and avoid isolated areas Discuss strategies for staying safe in various situations
Invest time in their Safety
Ensuring that your child has a solid understanding of all safety measures, regardless of their age is a critical step towards having a safe and happy school year
electronics recycling drop-off November 2, 9 am
The Police Department will once again partner with the Cook County Sheriff’s Office for a Prescription Drug Take Back, Electronics Recycling and Shredding Drive-Up event on Saturday, November 2, 9 am-Noon (or until the truck is full) in front of the Public Works garage at 2345 S. Des Plaines Avenue. This event is free.
prescription drug take-back
Drop off your unwanted and expired medicine pills only. Don’t forget that the Police Department lobby has a collection box that is available 24/7 year-round for your convenience document shredding
Remove all paper clips, binder clips, and rubber bands from your unwanted documents
electronic recycling
The event will also feature an opportunity to recycle electronics. Items accepted include cables, cell phones and phones, laptops and computers, hardware, monitors, calculators, printers, fax machines, game systems/stereos, TVs (limit one per household), toasters, blenders, holiday lights, toner, UPS batteries/car batteries
YOUR SAFETY OUR PRIORITY
they say “STAND By yOUR PAN” BECAUSE IT’S THE #1 FIRE CAUSE
The Fire Department is taking the slight uptick in residential kitchen fires very seriously Both homeowners and apartment dwellers are reminded that cooking is, by far, the leading cause of home fires and home fire injuries. In 2021, fire departments across the United States responded to an estimated 170,000 home cooking fires. These fires caused an estimated 135 deaths, 3,000 injuries and over $494 million in property loss “In recent months, we have responded to two significant kitchen fires,” said Fire Chief Bob McDermott “One of the things I can’t stress enough is that, when you’re cooking, never leave it unattended. Unattended equipment is the major cause of kitchen fires. Fires start small common causes of kitchen fires are oven mitts or a towel too close to the stovetop To prevent a fire from occurring, here are a few important reminders ”
n Stoves aren’t the only cause of fires Residents need to inspect the cords on electrical appliances such as slow cookers, toasters, hot plates and microwaves. Parents setting up their college kids in on-campus or off-campus housing would be wise to inspect cooking equipment and check for smoke alarms in the dormitory or apartment
n Outdoor grilling is great there’s nothing like it It seems easy enough but careless mistakes can cause catastrophes. Keep your grill away from siding, railings and overhanging branches; use the grill outside only with propane, charcoal or wood and ALWAYS open your gas grill before lighting Keep children and pets away and keep your grill clean by removing grease or fat buildup
n Doing laundry is most likely part of your every day routine but did you know that taking care of your dryer is essential to the safety of your family and your home? Cleaning the lint filter before or after each load of laundry is a must lint is highly flammable, which is exactly why campers use it as a perfect fire starter Constricted ductwork can ignite the dryer and potentially spread through your home
n Lastly, if you rent, your landlord’s insurance will only cover the repair of the building. To financially protect yourself, anyone living in an apartment should consider renters or tenants insurance
Cook with Care
Always follow these common sense cooking safety tips
1) Stand by your pan. If you leave the kitchen, turn the burner off.
2) If you see smoke or grease boiling, just turn the burner off.
3) Turn pot handles toward the back of the stove and one can bump them or pull them over.
4) Keep a pan lid or baking sheet nearby. you can use it to cover the pan that’s on fire to extinguish it. Never use water on a grease fire.
5) Keep children and pets away from the cooking area.
6) If you have a fire inside of the oven, turn off the heat and keep the door closed.
If you’re unsure of what to do next, get out, close the door behind you an call 9-1-1.
If you get burned, treat it with cool water for 3-5 minutes, get medical help immediately and call 9-1-1.
IDOT CONSTRUC TION FALL UPDATES
Several IDOT road projects will come through North Riverside
Important fall construction season updates:
Harlem Avenue Road Improvements
IDOT has contracted with Arrow Road Construction Company to perform this work The scope of this project includes a complete pavement overlay of Harlem Avenue from Zeigler Ford to 23rd Street and Cermak Road from Federal Drive east to Harlem Avenue, including reconfiguration of the northbound and southbound lanes of Harlem Avenue, added left turn lanes at the Harlem/Cermak intersection, improved pedestrian crosswalks and the installation of new traffic signals and medians. Residents should expect traffic delays in the Village’s business district and stay alert for workers in the work zones, decreased speed limits and changing lane patterns during this construction. Construction has already started on this IDOT project which is expected to be completed by the end of the year.
Cermak Road Improvements
IDOT has contracted with Builders Paving, Inc. to resurface Cermak Road from east of Interstate 294 (Tri State Tollway) in Oak Brook to Harlem Avenue. This $8.3 million project will consist of resurfacing the 5.6 mile stretch of Cermak Road and the construction and installation of new ADA compliant sidewalk ramps, curb and gutter replacements and improved pedestrian crosswalks. Construction is anticipated to begin August 12th, weather permitting, and will require daytime intermittent lane closures. This entire project is anticipated to be completed in fall of 2025.
At this time, the Village anticipates the work in North Riverside to begin in 2025.
26th Street Bridge Preservation Project
IDOT has contracted with MYS, Inc to perform the work on this project The scope of this work will include bridge deck repairs and replacement, concrete patching of the bridge approaches and restriping of the affected area. Construction is expected to start in late August/ early September and be completed by year end. Please stay alert for work zone signage and temporary street barricades along 26th near the start of construction
VILL AGE STREET PAVING INFR ASTRUCTURE INVESTMENT
These Village streets are scheduled for repaving. Work includes curb and gutter removal and replacement, pavement markings, landscape restoration, etc.
• 19th Avenue from 23rd Street to North Cul-De-Sac
• 23rd Street from 19th Avenue to 18th Avenue
• 18th Avenue from 23rd Street to Cermak
• 23rd Place from 14th Avenue to 13th Avenue
• 23rd Street from 13th Avenue to 12th Avenue
• Intersection of 19th Avenue and 23rd Street
Hydrant Flushing begins August 12
Public Works will perform its annual flushing of hydrants beginning August 12 Work will be performed on weekdays (except Wednesdays), 7am-3pm, taking approximately 3-4 weeks to complete, weather permitting. Signage will be posted; watch for updates on the official Village Facebook page Hydrant flushing is an essential maintenance process that improves water quality and water flow, as well as assuring the hydrant is in proper working condition. PW recommends you do not wash laundry during flushing hours as rust staining on clothing could result Although it is still safe to use water during the flushing periods, residents are advised to let the water run a few minutes prior to drinking or taking showers since flushing of the system can cause mild discoloration of the water
Here’s the tentative schedule:
West Zone: August 12-23. Begins on 1st Avenue traveling west to 19th Avenue, including Cermak Road.
Northeast Zone: August 26-29. Begins on Des Plaines traveling east to 2200 and 2300 Blocks of Keystone, Forest, Park, Westover, Hainsworth, Northgate and Lathrop Avenues, Traube Street (north of RR tracks) and 23rd Street
East Zone: August 30-September 6. Begins at Veterans Park traveling west to 2400 and 2500 Blocks of Hainsworth, Burr Oak, Westover, Park, Forest, Keystone and Des Plaines Avenues, Country Club Lane, and 25th and 26th Street (Veterans Park to Des Plaines)
South Zone: September 9-10. Begins at 26th Street (Des Plaines Avenue to 1st) traveling south to 31st Street, including Lincoln Avenue, Lewe Court, Edgewater Road, River Road and Groveland Avenue
Business District: September 12. Harlem Avenue and Cermak Road Business Districts around North Riverside Park Mall.
• 24th Street from 9th Avenue to 8th Avenue
• 8th Avenue from 26th Street to 25th Street
• 24th Street from 5th Avenue to 4th Avenue
• 24th Street from 2nd Avenue to 1st Avenue
• Keystone Avenue from 25th Street to North Cul-De-Sac
• Forest Avenue from 25th Street to North Cul-De-Sac
• Westover Avenue from Traube to 23rd Street
• Burr Oak Avenue from 26th Street to 25th Street
• 25th Street from Burr Oak to Hainsworth Avenue
• Street patching at various locations
This necessary roadway and street MFT paving project is anticipated to begin in October 2024
What a spectacular 4th of July celebration! Many thanks to all who joined the parade, watched or worked; to our Little League; to Riverside Golf Club; and to Congressman Jesus “Chuy” Garcia for his support!
POSTMASTER DELIVER TO:
MAYOR
Joseph Mengoni
VILLAGE CLERK
Kathy Ranieri
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Jason Bianco
Debbie Czajka
Fernando Flores
Antonio “Tony” Santucci
Terri Sarro
Nicholas Tricoci
ADMINISTRATOR
Sue Scarpiniti
AN EX TR AORDINARY INVESTMENT
Recipients of the 2024 Mayor’s Golf Outing Scholarships
Investing in our roads, public safety, recreation programs and economic development are, of course, Village priorities However, one day each year, the spotlight turns to an even bigger investment: resident students pursuing their higher educational goals, hoping to make the world a better place. On June 10, the Mayor ’s annual Youth Scholarship Golf Outing was held at Riverside Golf Club. This event, once again brought golfers, sponsors, benefactors and students together, continuing the tradition that began in 1995. Money raised from this event also assists eligible resident parents who are experiencing economic hardships with the cost of Recreation camps, preschool and other fees Those who were able to attend the luncheon are pictured above with Mayor Joseph Mengoni, Trustees Jason Bianco, Debbie Czajka, Nick Tricoci, Antonio “Tony” Santucci, Terri Sarro, Fernando Flores and Clerk Kathy Ranieri as well as Youth Scholarship Committee Director Nelson Mercado. Congratulations to the 2024 recipients: Isabel Anaya, Paige Beggs, Olivia Blood, Ella Bogdon, Francisco Cervantes, Mayan Covarrubias, Sophia Cozzone, Brianna Diaz, Santana Diaz, Mia Diaz, Samuel Egan, Kathryn Fedorski, Nora Ford, Amelia Gardiner, Madalynn Georgopoulos, Amaya Gonzalez, Lena Lembcke, Louis Mahoney, Victor Maruska, Tyler Miller, Margaret O’Kane, Leila Ortiz, Kiara Osorio, Krysta Pelayo, Ruby Pelayo, Daniela Quiroga, Bridget Roudebush, Abigail Salamanca, Jaelyn Turina, Eric Watson, Rachel Watson and Makayla Witz. Not pictured: Youth Scholarship Committee President Kenneth Krochmal and Secretary Elizabeth Wittbrodt.
This year, 32 scholarships totalling $27,000 were awarded. More than $670,000 in educational scholarships have helped North Riverside students offset their college costs “This Program continues to be successful because of the unwavering support of Riverside Golf Club, the generosity of local businesses and golfers who believe, as we do, that alleviating even a little of the financial burden of getting a college education is crucial these days. College costs have doubled in the 21st century, growing by around 7% annually, according to some sources,” said Mayor Mengoni. “These scholarships are much more than a check from us to them it’s our way of saying, “We’re cheering you on, you’ve got this and your hometown cares about you very much,” the Mayor added