Deerpath Road Reopens in Lake Forest After $3.3 Million Overhaul

UPDATE: Deerpath Road in Lake Forest has officially reopened to traffic as of October 31, 2023, after a lengthy 10-month streetscape renovation that cost $3.3 million. The project, aimed at modernizing infrastructure and enhancing pedestrian safety, has elicited a mix of relief and frustration from local business owners who endured significant disruptions during construction.

The reopening marks a pivotal moment for the central business district, with city officials praising the upgrades. “This project creates a safer, more accessible, and beautiful streetscape for our community to enjoy for decades to come,” stated Mayor Stanford “Randy” Tack during a ceremony on November 8. The enhancements include new pavement, improved sidewalks, crosswalks, landscaping, and decorative lighting.

City spokeswoman Dana Olson clarified that the upgrades were partially funded by a federal grant processed by the Illinois Department of Transportation, with around $1.4 million sourced locally. The companion Bank Lane reconstruction project, which concluded on November 6, added another $1.6 million to the city’s expenditures.

While some merchants like Mark Roberts, owner of Mark David Designs, expressed relief over the project’s completion, he highlighted ongoing safety concerns regarding crosswalk visibility. “Nobody knows where the actual crosswalk is or the stop,” Roberts lamented, emphasizing the need for clearer markings.

In contrast, other business owners are already seeing positive impacts. Adam Dlatt, co-owner of Once Upon A Bagel, reported an immediate increase in customer traffic since the construction ended. “We are seeing a new influx of customers and we couldn’t be happier,” he said.

The mixed reactions from local businesses reflect the project’s dual nature—while it aims to enhance aesthetic appeal and accessibility, many faced financial struggles during the protracted construction. In response to these hardships, the Lake Forest City Council has approved relief grants for affected businesses, allowing eligible recipients to recover up to 50% of lost sales revenue from January 1 to October 31, 2025, compared to the same period in 2024.

Roberts, who has applied for the grant, expressed skepticism about its effectiveness. “It’s fine, but it really isn’t a big help,” he noted, suggesting that the support comes too late to alleviate the stress caused by the construction.

As the holiday season approaches, the Lake Forest/Lake Bluff Chamber of Commerce has initiated a holiday shopping promotion running through December 1 to encourage shoppers back to downtown. Local businesses are hoping these measures will help recoup lost foot traffic and stimulate the community’s economy.

The Deerpath Streetscape Project, although completed, remains a focal point of discussion among residents and merchants, with many eager to see how the changes will ultimately benefit Lake Forest’s vibrant downtown community in the long term.