The Will County Public Works & Transportation Committee convened on July 1, 2025, to discuss significant updates regarding the Access Will County transportation program, which provides essential curb-to-curb services for seniors and individuals with disabilities. The meeting featured presentations from Elaine Bottomley, Deputy Chief of Staff, and Colin Phillips, the mobility manager, who highlighted the program's growth and future plans.

Access Will County has expanded its services to 16 townships, utilizing PACE paratransit shuttle buses designed for accessibility. The program aims to streamline registration, making it easier for residents to access transportation services. Phillips emphasized the need for improved accessibility across all townships, noting that many residents face challenges when traveling outside their designated service areas. He expressed a desire for all seniors and individuals with disabilities in Will County to have equal access to transportation, regardless of their township.

A recent study conducted in June 2023 provided seven recommendations to enhance the program, including expanding service hours and consolidating transportation services across townships. The committee discussed the importance of addressing the disparities in service availability, particularly for residents in areas like Wheatland Township, which has yet to join the program. Bottomley confirmed ongoing efforts to engage with Wheatland Township officials to facilitate their inclusion in the service.

The committee members raised concerns about the current limitations of the program, particularly regarding the exclusion of certain townships despite their residents benefiting from the service. Member Julie Berkowitz highlighted the need for immediate action to ensure that all seniors in Will County receive the transportation services they are entitled to, given that taxpayer funds support the program.

Looking ahead, the committee is preparing for the fiscal year 2026 budget, which will include proposals for expanding services to additional townships. Bottomley indicated that discussions with Central Will Dial A Ride are underway to explore a phased approach to integrating their services into the Access Will County program. The anticipated budget for 2026 is projected to be around $600,000, with Will County covering approximately one-third of the costs.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the ongoing efforts to enhance transportation accessibility for vulnerable populations in Will County. The committee's commitment to addressing service gaps and expanding coverage reflects a broader goal of ensuring equitable access to essential services for all residents. As discussions continue, the committee aims to finalize budget proposals and agreements with townships to facilitate the expansion of the Access Will County program.