The Village of Oswego has secured technical assistance from the Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning (CMAP) to develop a comprehensive bicycle and pedestrian plan. This initiative, presented at a recent village board meeting, marks a significant step towards enhancing transportation safety and accessibility within the community.

Jen Maddox, a senior planner at CMAP, outlined the project’s objectives, emphasizing the importance of creating a safer environment for vulnerable roadway users, including pedestrians and cyclists. The plan is part of a broader effort by CMAP, which serves 284 communities in Northeastern Illinois, to address critical issues in transportation, land use, and quality of life through its long-range plan, ON TO 2050.

Oswego was one of only three communities selected from a competitive pool of applicants, highlighting the village's commitment to improving local infrastructure. The project, which would typically cost around $100,000, will require a local contribution of $20,000 from the village, fostering community ownership and engagement in the planning process.

The bicycle and pedestrian plan will take approximately 18 months to complete, beginning with the establishment of a communications and outreach strategy to involve the public in the planning process. Key deliverables will include an existing conditions report and a final comprehensive plan that outlines recommendations for enhancing safety and connectivity throughout the village.

Maddox noted that the project will also focus on ensuring compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and will consider the needs of a growing population as Oswego continues to develop. The next steps include selecting a consultant team to guide the project and launching a dedicated project website to keep the community informed and engaged.