Will County Board Meeting | November 2025

Article Summary: The Will County Board authorized a $301,000 contract for the design of a new bridge carrying Gougar Road over the Canadian National Railroad in New Lenox. The project aims to improve safety and traffic flow at a critical infrastructure point.

Gougar Road Bridge Key Points:

• Project: Phase II Design Engineering for the Gougar Road Bridge (County Highway 52).

• Location: Gougar Road over the Canadian National (CN) Railroad tracks in New Lenox Township.

• Cost: $301,703.00.

• Contractor: A. Epstein and Sons International, Inc.

• Scope: The firm will design a new structure and roadway approaches to replace the existing infrastructure.

JOLIET – Will County is moving forward with plans to replace the Gougar Road bridge over the Canadian National Railroad in New Lenox, authorizing a significant engineering contract on Thursday.

The Board approved a supplemental professional services agreement with A. Epstein and Sons International, Inc. valued at $301,703. The firm is tasked with “Phase II” design engineering, which involves creating the final contract plans, easement documents, and right-of-way plats necessary for construction.

The project targets a section of Gougar Road (County Highway 52) that serves as a key artery in District 2. The current structure over the CN tracks has been identified for replacement to meet modern traffic and safety standards.

Funding for the engineering work will come from a combination of sources, potentially including the Illinois Commerce Commission Grade Crossing Protection Fund, County RTA Tax funds, and County Motor Fuel Tax funds.

This design phase is a critical precursor to construction. Once A. Epstein and Sons completes the structural and roadway design, the county will be positioned to bid the project for construction, likely in a future fiscal year.