Lake Forest to renovate section of Bank Lane

Lake Forest is planning to renovate a section of Bank Lane, which runs from Deerpath Road to Southgate. This project is expected to cost about $1.7 million and is set to begin in July, lasting until late October. The aims include creating outdoor seating for local businesses and making the area more inviting for summer events. To improve safety, the city will install removable bollards to block traffic during outdoor gatherings. The renovation will also feature new paver bricks, low brick walls to separate cars and pedestrians, and a dedicated seating area for an ice cream shop at the intersection of Deerpath and Bank Lane. City officials hope these initial changes will help guide future projects. Community Development Director Catherine Czerniak noted that this renovation will help the city test new materials and designs. Landscape architect Kevin Clark shared ideas for further improvements to other areas of Bank Lane, suggesting updates to landscaping, lighting, and traffic controls. However, there is no set schedule for these additional renovations. Some plan commission members voiced their own suggestions, including the creation of a small park on Bank Lane. They emphasized the uniqueness of Lake Forest and the potential to enhance its character. Czerniak warned, though, that future projects will depend on the community's response to ongoing construction and budget constraints.