Chicago Construction News staff writer
The Joliet City Council has approved a $661.6 million budget for fiscal year 2025, which prioritizes essential investments in public safety, infrastructure, and water system upgrades. The newly passed budget includes significant funding for critical water projects, road improvements, and the continued modernization of city services to support future growth.
A key component of the budget is the allocation of $276 million for water-related operations and infrastructure, including water main replacements and the Lake Michigan Water Project, an effort to upgrade aging water systems.
The 2025 budget also earmarks funds for significant infrastructure improvements, including the repair of 30 miles of roadways and sidewalks, the replacement of 30 miles of water mains, and upgrades to city-owned facilities such as Slammers Stadium. A portion of the budget will also be dedicated to the design of a new Fire Station 7, highlighting Joliet’s proactive approach to maintaining its emergency response capabilities.

“We are the third-largest city in the state, and it’s time we operate like one,” said Mayor Terry D’Arcy. “Investing in our infrastructure, public safety, and water systems is crucial to maintaining the quality of life for our residents and ensuring that Joliet remains a competitive and attractive place to live and do business.”
Key infrastructure projects and investments include:
- 30 miles of road repairs and sidewalk replacements, addressing both aging infrastructure and safety concerns.
- 41 new vehicles for various city departments, ensuring that the city’s fleet remains operational and efficient.
- Roadway landscape upgrades designed to improve the aesthetics and environmental sustainability of the city’s thoroughfares.
- 30 new police department cameras, bolstering public safety and crime prevention capabilities across Joliet.
The budget also provides for significant investment in digital services, including new positions within the Information Technology Department to better serve the city’s growing digital needs. This move will help streamline city operations and enhance service delivery to residents.
The largest share of the budget, $276 million, will go towards water and sewer improvements. Specifically, $79 million will fund ongoing sewer and water operations, while $30 million is allocated for capital projects. The water main replacement program, which accounts for $114 million, will continue to address aging infrastructure and reduce the risk of water main breaks. Additionally, the $53 million set aside for the Lake Michigan Water Project is a long-term investment aimed at diversifying the city’s water supply and securing more sustainable water sources.