corner of 159th and Cicero are development-ready for commercial or mixed-use concepts, and the city is evaluating the conversion of a former mobile home park into a mixed-use neighborhood that pairs housing with supporting services. Each effort advances a simple goal: revive underutilized land in a way that adds value for the whole community. Collaboration is central to Oak Forest’s progress. The city credits State Representative Bob Rita, State Representative Will Davis, and Cook County Commissioner Donna Miller with helping secure grants and align county-led efforts, including the duplication of the regional water transmission line to ensure continuity of service. The South Suburban Mayors and Managers Association remains an essential regional partner, while the city continues to reduce red tape in its own code and processes to demonstrate to developers that timelines and approvals can be managed responsibly. “We’re consistently tightening our internal playbook,” Ruane says. “Developers know we’ll work with them, not against them.” LOOKING DOWN THE CITY PATH Looking ahead over the next 18 months, Oak Forest will keep pushing its downtown redevelopment around the Metra station, expand commercial investment along Cicero and 159th, and elevate community programming to make the district a true gathering place through concerts, markets, and seasonal events. The city is also staying close to two broader catalysts with long lead times but significant potential impact: Cook County’s redevelopment of the Oak Forest Hospital site at the city’s edge and the state’s longdiscussed third airport in the south suburbs. Either, if advanced, would require the city to respond quickly with infrastructure and land-use planning—and Oak Forest intends to be ready. “We’ve got the location, the access, and the community spirit,” Mayor Hortsman says. “We’re not just redeveloping properties—we’re rebuilding opportunities.” 129 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 12 OAK FOREST, IL
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