Village Formalizes Opposition to O’Hare Flyer | Fire Department Open House | Historic Preservation Awards

Thursday, September 17, 2026

Dear River Forest residents,

The proposed O’Hare Flyer Project has raised significant concerns among River Forest residents, particularly regarding its potential impacts on safety, traffic, the environment, and quality of life. The Village Board took formal action opposing this proposed project during Monday’s meeting. I thank you all for attending the meeting and sharing your ideas with the Village on how to combat this effort. Learn more about the Village’s efforts to advocate for our community in an article below.

I hope you’ll join me for a morning of conversation and community connection on Saturday, October 3, at 9 a.m. at the River Forest Civic Center. Our next Casual Conversation will feature House Speaker Chris Welch, who will join us to discuss Village initiatives, State issues, upcoming projects, and the topics that matter to you - all in an informal, welcoming setting.

Finally, mark your calendars for the return of Senior BBQ and Bingo on Monday, October 5, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Sunrise Senior Living. Seniors and their caregivers are welcome to gather for a complimentary barbecue lunch, try their luck at bingo, and enjoy an ice cream social while connecting with friends and neighbors.

Sincerely,

Cathy Adduci, Village President

Village of River Forest

Village Board Unanimously Opposes

O'Hare Flyer Project

At its September 14 meeting, the Village Board unanimously passed a resolution opposing the proposed O’Hare Flyer Project, a high-speed passenger rail connection between downtown Chicago and O’Hare International Airport that would use existing rail infrastructure that runs through River Forest neighborhoods.

The resolution cited concerns about pedestrian and vehicular safety, emergency response times, traffic congestion, crossing delays and noise. Additional projected challenges include impacts on neighborhood character, quality of life, and potential impacts to Thatcher Woods. The resolution also notes that sufficient information and analysis of the project’s impacts have not yet been provided.

The Village is urging project sponsors to consider alternative routes, including improvements to existing Metra and CTA lines, and will continue advocating against the current proposal throughout the review process. To learn more about the Village position on this issue, please visit the dedicated webpage.

Lake & Lathrop Update

This past Tuesday, Village officials attended the latest status hearing in the ongoing legal case that continues to delay progress at the Lake & Lathrop redevelopment site. Judge Kyriakopoulos set deadlines for all parties to complete depositions and discovery by the end of the year - an important step toward resolution of the case. The Judge also reiterated the importance of maintaining and keeping the site clean. The next status hearing is scheduled for October 19. Learn more about the history of this project here.

Historic Preservation Award Nominations

River Forest’s historic character is part of what makes the community unique. Do you know a homeowner, architect, or contractor whose work has helped preserve that character? If so, nominate them for one of the Village’s six Historic Preservation Awards, which recognize outstanding projects and individuals who have contributed to protecting River Forest’s architectural and cultural heritage. Nominations are limited to the exterior of structures and must be submitted by Friday, October 2 to be considered for this year’s awards. Explore the award categories and submit a nomination here.

Are You Prepared in Case of an Emergency?

September is National Preparedness Month, and a reminder to prepare yourself, your family, and your property for an emergency. For tips on how to be ready for the unexpected, click here.

Another way to be prepared for an emergency is for residents and business owners to sign up for the Village’s Community Connect program. This free, secure program shares important information with our Fire Department - including emergency contacts, mobility or medical needs, pets, and other residence or building details. This information helps first responders make faster, more informed decisions during an emergency, and is only available to authorized Fire Department personnel in the event of an emergency. Learn more and sign up here.

Labor Day Road

Safety Campaigns

The Police Department conducted an impaired driving enforcement campaign over the Labor Day holiday that resulted in three traffic arrests and 21 seat belt citations. Officers also issued 27 additional citations for offenses such as having a suspended or invalid driver’s license, no car insurance and distracted driving among others. The campaign was part of the Statewide “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over,” “Drive High. Get a DUI” and “Click It or Ticket” initiatives. The Police Department joined law enforcement agencies and highway safety partners across Illinois to promote safe driving and remind motorists about the risks of impaired driving.

Suicide Prevention Awareness

While suicide rates have seen a slight decrease over the last few years, it is still the second leading cause of death for youth and young adults ages 15-34. September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, and highlights the importance of social connection, encourages open conversations about mental health, and reminds community members that support is available. Thrive Counseling Center provides compassionate mental health and crisis services to individuals and families. If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available 24/7/365 by calling 708-383-7500. You can also call or text 988 to connect with the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

Sustainability: Village Composting Center

Temporarily Relocated

Residents can continue to drop off small amounts of compost at the Village Hall composting center, but compost carts will temporarily move from the front of Village Hall to the southwest corner of the building over the next few weeks. The temporary relocation will provide easier access while the parking area is rebuilt with permeable pavers designed to improve stormwater capture and infiltration. Accepted compost materials include food scraps, compostable paper products, and small amounts of organic waste. Additional compost carts are available at the Public Works Garage and Water Pumping Station. Residents interested in curbside composting can learn more here.

Business Spotlight - Garden Health Group

Garden Health Group is a community practice dedicated to supporting mental health and physical well-being. The practice brings together a team of healthcare therapists who help individuals navigate life’s many transitions - including loss, academic pressures, career changes, and other personal challenges. As we recognize Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, Garden Health Group’s focus on mental health is a timely reminder that support is available, and reaching out for help is an important step. For more information or to schedule an appointment, click 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.