Deerpath Road in Lake Forest has officially reopened following a significant streetscape overhaul that lasted ten months. The transformation, which concluded on **October 31, 2023**, has elicited a range of reactions from local officials and business owners, as the community balances relief and optimism against the frustrations of prolonged construction.
The project, which commenced in January, aimed to modernize the infrastructure, enhance pedestrian safety, and refresh the visual appeal of the downtown area. Alongside Deerpath, the reconstruction of Bank Lane, which connects Deerpath to Southgate, was completed on **November 6, 2023**. Mayor Stanford “Randy” Tack remarked at a ceremony on **November 8** that the project significantly improves accessibility and aesthetics for residents and visitors alike.
City officials initiated planning for the overhaul nearly a decade ago, choosing to complete the phases consecutively to boost efficiency. According to city spokeswoman Dana Olson, the total cost for the Deerpath upgrades amounted to **$3.3 million**, with **$1.4 million** sourced locally and the remainder secured through a federal grant administered by the Illinois Department of Transportation. The Bank Lane project added another **$1.6 million** in city expenditures, although final cost reconciliation is ongoing.
The streetscape improvements include new pavement, utility replacements, enhanced sidewalks and crosswalks, landscaping, and decorative lighting designed to enhance pedestrian appeal. Olson noted in an email, “The Deerpath Streetscape Project is an investment in the future of Lake Forest — addressing critical infrastructure needs while creating a more beautiful, accessible, and welcoming gateway to the Central Business District.”
While the finished project has garnered praise, many downtown business owners have expressed mixed feelings. Mark Roberts, owner of Mark David Designs located at the intersection of Deerpath and Bank Lane, acknowledges the aesthetic improvements but highlights the emotional and financial stress caused by the construction. “I’m glad it’s done,” he stated. “I’m glad they are out of our life for the most part.” Roberts also raised concerns about safety, citing poorly marked crosswalks outside his store.
“People do not yield or stop at all,” he added, advocating for clearer pedestrian pathways. In response, Olson clarified that the concrete banding in the area is intentionally designed to serve as crosswalk delineation.
Crystal Gambill, who opened Lux Lane, an athleisure clothing shop on the northwest corner of Deerpath and Bank Lane in February, shared similar sentiments. While she appreciates the refreshed appearance, she noted that construction significantly hampered access and created hazards for her customers. “People were tripping, and it was hazardous,” she remarked. “We rely on foot traffic, and we don’t have a strong social media presence yet, so it was difficult for customers to find parking or walk through what we had here.”
Conversely, some local entrepreneurs are optimistic about the changes. Adam Dlatt, co-owner of Once Upon A Bagel, which opened in May 2024, reported a notable increase in customer traffic since the construction ended. “Now that the construction is over, we are seeing a new influx of customers and we couldn’t be happier,” he stated. He emphasized that the streetscape not only enhances the aesthetic of downtown but also preserves its historic charm.
On Bank Lane, Sage Explorers owner Allison Gurza expressed relief at the improvements, describing her street as having long felt like “an alley.” When asked if the disruption was worth it, she responded, “Time will tell, but I am hoping so.”
In acknowledgment of the challenges faced by businesses during the construction, the Lake Forest City Council has approved relief grants for those affected. Eligible businesses can receive a grant equal to 50% of their sales revenue lost between **January 1** and **October 31, 2025**, compared to the same period in 2024. Olson explained that the maximum grant amount is **$11,650** per business. For businesses that opened after **January 1, 2025**, the maximum grant will be the greater of 50% of 2025 taxable sales or **$5,000**.
Roberts mentioned he applied for the grant but expressed skepticism about its potential impact. “That is pouring water on the fire after the fire is out,” he said. “It’s fine, but it really isn’t a big help.”
To further support local businesses, the Lake Forest/Lake Bluff Chamber of Commerce has initiated a holiday shopping promotion that will run through **December 1, 2023**. This effort aims to encourage shoppers to return to the downtown area and reinvigorate the local economy. As the community adapts to the changes, the reopening of Deerpath Road marks a significant milestone in Lake Forest’s ongoing development.
