Civic Center Update | River Forest Awarded Grant | Food Truck Rally

Friday, August 7, 2026

Dear River Forest residents,

The Village was recently honored with the Distinguished Budget Presentation Award, which recognizes a commitment to clear, transparent, and forward-thinking financial planning. Our long-range financial plan also received recognition for responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars, careful planning, and being prepared for unexpected challenges. Thank you to the Finance Department for their important work to ensure our financial position remains strong.

I’m also thrilled to announce the Village was awarded $80,000 through the 2026 Invest in Cook Program to support design engineering for the Washington Boulevard Corridor Pedestrian and Traffic Calming Improvements Project. You can learn more about this grant and project in an article below.

Finally, a big thank you to our Public Works Department for their outstanding work following last week's storms through a quick response to clearing debris from our sidewalks and roadways. This Department works behind the scenes every day to maintain our critical infrastructure and I am grateful for their commitment to our community.

Sincerely,

Cathy Adduci, Village President

Village of River Forest

Civic Center Authority Update

The Civic Center Authority Board, which currently oversees the Civic Center, formally voted on Tuesday, August 4, to approve consolidation of this important community building into a property owned and managed by the Village. Originally, the Civic Center Board approached the Village out of concern for the long-term viability of this building due to ongoing maintenance needed to ensure it can continue to provide vital programs and services for residents. As the only public entity that is legally permitted to consolidate this facility, the Village Board will be taking formal action at a meeting in September with a goal to complete the consolidation.

The ultimate goal is to ensure the Civic Center building is a viable, safe facility for decades to come. More information will be provided in Village communications when a meeting date is set.

River Forest Awarded $80,000 Grant

The Village has been awarded $80,000 in funding through the 2026 Invest in Cook Program to support design engineering for the Washington Boulevard Corridor Pedestrian and Traffic Calming Improvements Project. River Forest's proposal was selected from among 88 applications, and this grant will help to improve safety and accessibility for residents and visitors. The Village appreciates the support of the Cook County Department of Transportation and Highways, which will help to fund the many planned improvements along the corridor. Updates on the progress of this project will be shared in future communications.

Speed Enforcement Results

Throughout July, the Police Department participated in a Statewide speed enforcement campaign to improve roadway safety and reduce traffic fatalities. During the campaign, officers issued 86 speeding citations, along with citations for distracted driving, seat belt and child safety seat violations, uninsured motorists, and suspended or revoked licenses. The Police Department reminds all motorists to slow down, stay focused, and help keep River Forest roads safe. Learn more here.

National Water Quality Month

August is National Water Quality Month, a time to recognize the importance of protecting and preserving one of our most essential resources: clean water. Although water is a part of our everyday lives, access to this limited resource requires thoughtful management and protective measures. Clean water is vital for overall well-being, supports agriculture and local ecosystems, and plays a critical role in maintaining a healthy environment for future generations. To learn more about National Water Quality Month and ways you can help to protect water resources, click here.

Join the Annual Food Truck Rally

The annual Food Truck Rally returns on Friday, August 21, from 5 to 9 p.m. at Keystone Park West, located in the Depot parking lot. Presented in partnership with the Village, the River Forest Park District, and the Rotary Club of Oak Park-River Forest, this popular summer event offers a wide variety of options from local food trucks, a beer tent, live music, and activities designed for guests of all ages. View the full entertainment lineup and list of participating vendors here.

Review Safe Routes

To School

As the new school year approaches, the Village encourages parents to review the Safe Walking Routes to School Plan. It includes maps identifying recommended walking routes to all River Forest schools, to help students and families choose designated routes that keep safety in mind. Walking to school with your child is a great way to encourage healthy habits, while reducing traffic congestion, fuel use, and carbon emissions. You can view the Plan here.

Sustainability: Help Migratory Birds This Fall

Each fall, approximately eight million birds from more than 250 species migrate through the greater Chicago region on their journey to wintering grounds. Peak fall migration occurs between mid-August and mid-November, making this an important time to reduce hazards that can interfere with their travels. Artificial light at night can disrupt migratory paths and increase the risk of birds colliding with buildings. Residents can make a difference by turning off unnecessary lights, shielding outdoor lighting, and directing light only where needed.

These simple actions not only help protect migratory birds, but also conserve energy.

To help raise awareness, a student volunteer from Roosevelt Middle School created the accompanying flyer with practical tips for reducing light pollution during the fall migration season. Residents are encouraged to review the flyer and consider taking these small steps to support bird conservation in our community.

Business Spotlight - Spoke Cafe

If you haven't visited Spoke Café, now is the perfect time! This one-of-a-kind mobile bike café is now owned and operated by young entrepreneur Jordan Burkle, and the Burkle family, who took over operations after original owner Alec Olson went off to college. Whether you're craving a refreshing nitro cold brew, a draft root beer, or a hot cup of coffee brewed with Spoke Café's signature Bicycle Blend - there's something for everyone to enjoy. Be sure to visit this unique downtown destination and see what's brewing! View the menu and upcoming events here.

Please support local businesses whenever possible! If you have a business in River Forest with a valid business license, it can be featured in the Village’s business spotlight. If you’d like your business to be featured, please send an email. You can find a listing of River Forest businesses on the Village’s Shop River Forest website.