TRMA | July Newsletter

July 2026

Dear Will County Economic Development Partner, 

Will County has launched an update to our Land Resources Management Plan (LRMP). The current plan has been a helpful tool since adopted in 2002. However, much has changed since then, and it is time for an update to establish a modern framework for decision-making around land use and development.

As part of the plan making process, the County and our consultant team are seeking input from those who know the County, its constituents, and how it can grow in a way that meets our collective goals. Economic Development is an essential part of creating Will County’s future, and so it is a key consideration for the plan. To support that effort, we would value and appreciate your insights on the topic to help us create a framework for thoughtful stewardship of growth, preservation, and local needs.

You are invited to participate in an economic development stakeholder group interview as part of the LRMP Update. The interview will be conducted virtually and led by our consultant for the update, Teska Associates, Inc. The conversation is planned for 60 minutes, and we’ll be looking forward to your thoughts on:

Housing, commercial, and industrial growth, development and real estate markets in Will County.
Strengths, opportunities and challenges facing Will County regarding economic development.
The work your group does related to the County and its economy.

We’ve scheduled the virtual meeting for:

Tuesday, July 7th, at 11:00AM

Please let me know if you’re available and we’ll forward a meeting link. If that time doesn’t work, we’ll arrange an alternative time to get your insights.

Thank you in advance for your assistance.

Nick Hernandez, Community Planner

Community Development Division - Will County Land Use Department

Save the Date!

6th Annual Break Clay with TRMA

When: Wednesday, October 14th, 2026

Where: Downers Grove Sportsmens Club

Time: 9am (Check in @ 8:15am)

Beyond the Heat: Protecting Workers from Sun Exposure and Heat Emergencies

July brings some of the hottest temperatures of the year, making it an ideal time to remind employees that heat safety goes beyond staying cool. For outdoor workers, prolonged exposure to both heat and ultraviolet (UV) radiation can create serious health risks that require attention and preparation.

While heat exhaustion and heat stroke remain significant concerns, workers should also be aware of the dangers of excessive sun exposure. UV radiation can cause painful sunburns, accelerate skin aging, increase the risk of skin cancer, and contribute to eye damage over time. Even on cloudy days, UV rays can be strong enough to cause harm.

Employers can help protect outdoor workers by encouraging a few simple but effective practices:

Drink water frequently throughout the workday—don't wait until you're thirsty.
Take regular breaks in shaded or cooled areas.
Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing that covers exposed skin.
Use broad-spectrum sunscreen and reapply it as directed.
Wear a wide-brimmed hat and UV-protective sunglasses when appropriate.
Watch for signs of heat stress, including dizziness, headaches, confusion, excessive sweating, or nausea.

Perhaps most importantly, workers and supervisors should know how to respond when a heat-related emergency occurs. Heat exhaustion can quickly progress to heat stroke—a life-threatening condition requiring immediate medical attention. Early recognition and prompt action can make all the difference.

This summer, take a few extra moments to evaluate your heat illness prevention efforts, reinforce UV safety practices, and ensure employees know what to do when someone shows signs of a heat emergency.

A safe summer starts with awareness, preparation, and looking out for one another.

We are excited to announce that TRMA’s MFG Day event will be held this year on October 6th, and exhibitor registration is officially open!

Each year, MFG Day gives students the opportunity to explore the incredible career paths available in manufacturing, connect with local companies, and experience firsthand the innovation happening in our industry. We are expecting around 900 students to attend this year, and your company’s presence truly helps make this event such a meaningful and successful experience for them.

If you already know your company would like to participate as an exhibitor, we encourage you to register early using the link below:

Exhibitor Registration

We are looking forward to another amazing year and appreciate your continued support in inspiring the next generation of manufacturers!

When: Thursday, June 4th, 2026

Where: JJC Event Center

1215 Houbolt Rd, Joliet, IL 60431

Time: 9am-1pm