Forest Preserve to begin Districtwide asphalt assessment

The Forest Preserve District’s comprehensive asphalt assessment program is about to get underway.

The work is scheduled to begin on July 6. 

Some preserve closures or delayed openings will be required for the work to be completed, said Robert Dillon, the Forest Preserve’s maintenance and operations department project manager.

“This will eliminate vehicle traffic and avoid congested parking lots while crews complete their work,” he said. “Signs will be posted at entrances informing visitors that an access area is closed or that trail work is in progress.” Closure alerts also will be posted on the Forest Preserve’s website when possible.

More than 700,000 square yards of trails, parking lots and roadways will be assessed. The evaluation will allow the District to prioritize improvements based on condition, usage and safety, ensuring resources are invested strategically.

“This work will give us a thorough baseline of where the District’s infrastructure currently stands,” said Jason Buss, director of maintenance and operations for the Forest Preserve. “We are excited to begin this assessment project because it will guide the Infrastructure, Maintenance and Replacement Program well into the future.”

The work is expected to last about 10 weeks and will be performed by Engineering and Research International Inc.

The company will use a specialized imaging truck to collect data at locations accessible by vehicle. At less accessible sites visual inspections will be conducted and data will be collected by golf cart or on foot.

Weather and other factors could affect the project's timeline. Updates will be posted as necessary.