Food Truck Rally Today | Historic Preservation Chair Steps Aside | Back to School Safety

Friday, August 21, 2026

Dear River Forest residents,

After more than 15 years of service on the Village’s Historic Preservation Commission (HPC), Dave Franek is transitioning from his role as Chair to continue serving as a member of the Commission. We’re grateful for Dave’s longtime commitment to preserving River Forest’s historic character and his many contributions to the HPC. Learn more about the transition below.

Also, tonight is the Food Truck Rally at Keystone Park! The event is a great opportunity to gather with friends and neighbors for an evening of delicious food, entertainment, and community. Enjoy a variety of food trucks, wine from Cooper’s Hawk Winery, and live music from Sons of Chicago, a high-energy classic rock band. We hope you’ll join us for this exciting community tradition. More information can be found in an article below.

Sincerely,

Cathy Adduci, Village President

Village of River Forest

Food Truck Rally Returns Tonight!

Get ready for an evening of food, fun, and community! The annual Food Truck Rally returns tonight, August 21, from 5–9 p.m. at Keystone Park West in the Depot parking lot. This popular summer tradition brings the community together while featuring a variety of local food trucks, a beer tent, live entertainment, and activities for the whole family. It’s presented through a partnership between the Village, River Forest Park District, and Rotary Club of Oak Park-River Forest. Bring your family and friends, enjoy dinner from your favorite food trucks, and make the most of this community tradition. View the full entertainment lineup and participating vendors here.

Drive Sober this

Labor Day

The Police Department is joining more than 200 law enforcement agencies across Illinois in the Statewide “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over,” “Drive High. Get a DUI,” and “Click It or Ticket” campaigns. From now through the early morning hours of September 8, officers will focus on preventing impaired and distracted driving, enforcing seat belt laws, and reducing other dangerous driving behaviors. The Department reminds residents that driving under the influence of alcohol, cannabis, or other impairing drugs is both dangerous and illegal. Drivers are encouraged to plan ahead, use a designated driver, and never get behind the wheel while impaired. Officers will also be enforcing seat belt laws, reminding everyone in vehicles to buckle up.

HPC Chair Steps Aside, New Chair Steps In

After more than 15 years of dedicated service, Dave Franek has stepped down from his role as Chair of the Historic Preservation Commission (HPC). As one of the Village’s longest-serving volunteers, Dave has made a lasting impact on both the Commission and the community. Throughout his tenure, he helped guide the Commission through the adoption of its first ordinances, multiple ordinance revisions, and the development of its online database. Although Dave is stepping down as Chair, he will continue to serve as a member of the Commission, bringing his experience and knowledge to its ongoing work. The Village is grateful for Dave’s many years of leadership, commitment, and service to the HPC, in addition to the community.

The Village also extends congratulations and a warm welcome to John Forehand, who will serve as the HPC’s new Chair. A Commission member since 2019, John is an experienced architect who brings valuable expertise and a fresh perspective to this important role. We look forward to his leadership and continued work to preserve River Forest’s historic character.

Back to School Safety

With children returning to school, the Police Department reminds drivers to use extra caution around schools, parks, and residential areas. Remember to obey school zone speed limits, put your phone away while driving, follow crossing guards’ directions, and yield to pedestrians in crosswalks. Drivers should also be aware of one-way streets on school days and review parking restrictions near schools. By slowing down, staying alert, and yielding to pedestrians, we can help ensure a safe start to the school year for everyone. For additional back-to-school safety reminders, click here. The Village wishes all students, families, and educators a safe and successful school year!

Pardon Our Dust

Work is underway on the 2026 Watermain Project on Franklin Avenue, between Washington Boulevard and Madison Street. The project will replace the existing 6-inch watermain with a new 8-inch main, which will help to improve water flow and enhance the reliability of the water system.

The contractor has recently begun installation near Franklin Avenue and Washington Boulevard and is continuing south toward Vine Street. Work is expected to progress toward Madison Street next week and continue through October. Residents are asked to avoid the work zone whenever possible. Thank you for your patience and cooperation as this important infrastructure improvement moves forward!

Sustainability: Green Building Guide on Electrification

Considering an electric upgrade for your home? Whether you’re looking to replace a traditional furnace with a heat pump, switch from a gas stove to an induction range, or replace a natural gas water heater or clothes dryer with an electric or heat pump model - there are several potential financial and environmental benefits to making the switch. To help residents navigate the process, the Village’s Sustainability Commission has created a Green Building Guide on Electrification. The Guide explains the benefits of electrifying your home, outlines permitting requirements, and includes information about HVAC contractors who perform heat pump installations. Explore the guide here.

Business Spotlight - Joy Tea

Joy Tea is a new addition to the River Forest community that offers award-winning teas and handcrafted beverages that blend ancient tea traditions with a modern twist. In addition to its unique drink offerings, the business features a beautiful outdoor space with comfortable seating and beautifully landscaped surroundings. Residents are encouraged to stop by, explore the menu, and support this new local business. Learn more 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.