Investing in a Stronger, More Connected West Chicago in 2026

West Chicago's 2026 Budget focuses on projects that strengthen the community, support local businesses, improve City services, and prepare for long-term growth. Guided by the City's 2025 to 2027 Strategic Priorities and the 2026 to 2028 Economic Development Work Plan, next year's investments help make West Chicago a more welcoming, efficient, and forward-thinking place to live, work, and visit.

The budget continues the City's commitment to responsible spending while putting more resources toward capital improvements. These are long-lasting projects such as roads, buildings, digital systems, water and sewer infrastructure, and public spaces. Each of these efforts supports a vibrant downtown, safer neighborhoods, better customer service, and a stronger local economy.

Celebrating Culture and Strengthening Community Identity

In 2026, the City will highlight local culture, history, and creativity through several community-focused events and programs:

• Hosting at least one community parade that celebrates civic pride and cultural heritage.
• Launching a new summer cultural market as a pilot placemaking project designed to activate the downtown area and support local artisans, entrepreneurs, and diverse cultural traditions.
• Holding open houses to share updates on major projects, gather community feedback, and help the public stay informed about long-term investments.
• Hosting a special community event and/or activities to commemorate America 250, which honors the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.

These activities support the Strategic Priority of Elevating Culture and Community Identity by bringing people together and celebrating what makes West Chicago unique.

Caring for Community Spaces and Historic Places

Capital investments will continue to improve parks and public facilities across the city:

• Phase 0 of the new Community Park will be completed using grant funding. This investment will bring new outdoor space and recreation opportunities to the community.
• The City will continue investing in public facilities and properties, including a major rehabilitation of the City Museum which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This work is part of a larger effort to maintain City-owned buildings and preserve historic resources.
• The Historic Resources Survey that began in 2025 will be completed to help preserve West Chicago's heritage and guide future planning decisions.

These investments make the community more welcoming and help protect significant cultural assets for future generations.

Strengthening Infrastructure and Water Systems

Reliable infrastructure keeps daily life running smoothly and safely. In 2026, the City will:

• Complete the design for Phase I of the Lead Service Line Replacement Program, pending funding approval.
• Conduct a utility rate study to evaluate long-term stability of the Water and Sewer Funds. This work follows the City's recent 2026 Water and Sewer Rate Update for All Customers, which explains why rate adjustments are needed and how they support long-term infrastructure improvements.
• Make substantial progress on public improvements, like roadway rehabilitation, within industrial parks to ensure continued access and support for local businesses. These improvements help maintain strong connections for manufacturers, logistics companies, and other employers who rely on dependable roadway and utility systems.

These efforts advance the Strategic Priority of Investing in Our Future by improving safety, supporting local industry, and preparing for future growth.

Looking Ahead

The 2026 Budget moves West Chicago forward in meaningful ways. It modernizes services, improves infrastructure, supports business growth, strengthens downtown, and celebrates the culture and identity that make the city special. Each project supports the Strategic Priorities and the Economic Development Work Plan, creating a strong foundation for future opportunity and community pride.