Deerpath Road Reopens After $3.3M Overhaul, Businesses React

UPDATE: Deerpath Road in Lake Forest has officially reopened to traffic as of October 31, 2023, after a lengthy 10-month streetscape overhaul costing $3.3 million. This significant redevelopment aims to modernize infrastructure, enhance pedestrian safety, and refresh the downtown aesthetic, marking a pivotal moment for local businesses and residents.

The reopening ceremony held on November 8 was led by Mayor Stanford “Randy” Tack, who emphasized the project’s impact: “This project creates a safer, more accessible, and beautiful streetscape for our community to enjoy for decades to come.” While city officials celebrate the completion, downtown business owners express mixed feelings, grappling with the aftermath of prolonged construction.

The main east-west corridor through Lake Forest’s central business district reopened to vehicles following a project that began in January 2023. As part of the initiative, the adjacent Bank Lane reconstruction was completed on November 6, adding another $1.6 million to the city’s investment. City spokeswoman Dana Olson confirmed that $1.4 million of the Deerpath upgrades were locally funded, while the remainder was sourced from a federal grant.

Business owners like Mark Roberts, who operates Mark David Designs, voiced their relief but also frustration over the disruption. “I’m glad it’s done,” he stated. However, he flagged safety concerns regarding poorly marked crosswalks near his store, which may pose risks to pedestrians. “Nobody knows where the actual crosswalk is or the stop,” he added.

On the other hand, some entrepreneurs are optimistic. Crystal Gambill, owner of the new athleisure shop Lux Lane, noted that the construction had severely hampered customer access, causing significant challenges for her emerging business. “People were tripping, and it was hazardous,” she remarked. Yet, Adam Dlatt, co-owner of Once Upon A Bagel, reported an uptick in customer traffic since the project’s completion, stating, “Now that the construction is over, we are seeing a new influx of customers and we couldn’t be happier.”

The city council has responded to the struggles faced by local businesses during the construction phase by approving relief grants. Eligible businesses can receive grants equal to 50% of the sales revenue lost between January 1 and October 31, 2025, compared to the same period in 2024, with a maximum grant of $11,650. Eleven businesses have already benefited from this program.

Despite these measures, Roberts expressed skepticism about the effectiveness of the grants, describing them as “pouring water on the fire after the fire is out.” Meanwhile, the Lake Forest/Lake Bluff Chamber of Commerce has initiated a holiday shopping promotion running through December 1 to help incentivize shoppers to return to downtown.

As the community adjusts to these changes, the Deerpath Streetscape Project stands as a testament to the ongoing evolution of Lake Forest, aiming for a vibrant and accessible downtown area. The full impacts on local businesses and pedestrian safety will unfold in the coming months, making it an essential development to watch.