Investing in Villa Park’s Streets, Sidewalks & Infrastructure

Posted Fri, Feb 21, 2025 in Jorge for VP

A strong community starts with safe, reliable infrastructure. Roads, sidewalks, and utilities impact daily life—how we get to work, how kids walk to school, how businesses operate, and how we handle storms and flooding. If we want Villa Park to thrive, we need to ensure that these systems are well-maintained and built for the future.

The Villa Park Comprehensive Plan provides a framework for infrastructure improvements, but plans only work if we push projects forward and secure funding. As Village President, I will ensure these projects get done by prioritizing funding, working with state and local agencies, holding contractors accountable, and keeping residents informed on progress. My goal is to keep these projects on track, ensure transparency, and prioritize smart, long-term solutions that don’t leave us fixing the same problems over and over again.

Fixing Roads & Sidewalks That Need It Most

We all know certain roads and sidewalks in Villa Park are long overdue for repairs. Some need resurfacing, others need full replacement, and many just need better maintenance to keep them in good shape. The key is prioritizing the worst areas first while ensuring newly completed projects are maintained properly. We also need to make sure funding is used effectively and efficiently, so repairs last and don’t become recurring issues.

How we get it done:

  • Secure and prioritize funding – I will push for state and federal grants, reallocate village funds where necessary, and ensure infrastructure projects remain a budget priority.

  • Work with public works leadership – Establish clear timelines and expectations so projects don’t get delayed.

  • Increase oversight on projects – Hold contractors accountable for quality work that lasts, not just quick fixes.

  • Improve communication with residents – Provide regular updates on infrastructure projects so people know what’s happening in their neighborhoods.

Upgrading Water & Sewer Systems

Aging water and sewer infrastructure can lead to costly breakdowns and flooding issues. Instead of waiting for problems to arise, we need to be proactive about replacing outdated systems and improving drainage where needed. Infrastructure upgrades must be a priority, not an afterthought.

How we get it done:

  • Prioritize stormwater management – Advocate for regional stormwater grants and ensure that local public works initiatives align with long-term flood prevention strategies.

  • Apply for state and federal funding – Large infrastructure projects are expensive, but there are funding sources that can help cover costs without burdening residents.

  • Ensure smart project scheduling – Coordinate road and sewer projects so repairs happen together instead of tearing up the same roads twice.

Reducing Traffic Issues & Improving Safety

Whether you drive, bike, or walk, traffic flow and road safety impact everyone. We need a smarter approach to reduce congestion and make Villa Park’s roads safer. That means implementing solutions that actually work for residents, not just temporary fixes.

How we get it done:

  • Improve traffic planning – Collaborate with regional transportation agencies to implement smarter signal timing and intersection improvements.

  • Enhance transit options – Advocate for better Pace bus service and transit connections to make transportation easier for everyone.

  • Upgrade lighting and signage – Small but important improvements, such as clearer street signs and better lighting, will improve safety.

Investing in Public Spaces & Green Infrastructure

Infrastructure isn’t just about roads—it includes parks, public spaces, and sustainability initiatives that make Villa Park a better place to live. A well-maintained and thoughtfully designed community is one that attracts families and businesses alike.

How we get it done:

  • Push for funding for parks and public spaces – Work with state and local agencies to bring in grants for park improvements.

  • Expand environmentally friendly infrastructure – Implement energy-efficient streetlights, permeable pavement, and tree-lined streets to improve sustainability.

  • Develop a long-term infrastructure plan – Ensure that every infrastructure decision considers future growth and doesn’t just provide a temporary fix.

Building a Smarter, Stronger Villa Park

Infrastructure is about more than just repairs—it’s about keeping Villa Park safe, accessible, and built to last. As Village President, I will take a hands-on, proactive approach to ensure these projects happen on time, on budget, and with the community’s needs in mind. By investing in long-term solutions, holding funding partners accountable, and ensuring projects stay on track, we can create a village that works better for everyone—now and in the future.

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