Frankfort Library Reading Room Project Moves to Permitting Phase; Native Landscaping Planned
Frankfort Public Library District Board of Trustees Meeting | October 2025
Article Summary: The Frankfort Public Library District Board of Trustees received a detailed update on the Reading Room Project, including a timeline for permits and bids. The project will involve grading changes to the land and the introduction of native plants following construction.
Reading Room Project Key Points:
-
Landscaping Changes: A current plan involves a 10% slope grading away from the building, which will require the removal of three trees.
-
Timeline: Permits were scheduled to be submitted by November 6, 2025, with a call for bids beginning December 11, 2025.
-
Environmental Focus: The library plans to incorporate native plants and has engaged the Conservation Foundation for consultation.
-
Bid Process: Recommendations on bids are expected to be presented at the January 2026 board meeting.
FRANKFORT – The Frankfort Public Library District Board of Trustees on Thursday, October 23, 2025, reviewed the latest developments regarding the Reading Room Project, focusing heavily on landscaping and construction timelines.
During the meeting, officials discussed the land survey results, which dictate a new grading plan featuring a 10% slope away from the building to ensure proper drainage. This re-grading will necessitate the removal of three existing trees. It was recommended that the area near the building not be landscaped for six months following the project’s completion.
The board outlined a specific schedule for the coming months. Permits were slated for submission on November 6, followed by a call for bids starting December 11. The bid process is expected to conclude on January 15, with a review period following immediately. The goal is to present bid recommendations to the board at the January 2026 meeting.
Director Amanda Kowalcze reported efforts to enhance the environmental sustainability of the site post-construction. She reached out to Possibility Place Nursery for a consultation regarding native plants. Additionally, the Conservation Foundation was scheduled to visit the site on November 14 to consult on the project, though the foundation charges for final certification.
Community Events
Latest News Stories
JJC Receives Surprise $1.9 Million from IRS Employee Retention Credit
Supreme Court allows Trump to withhold partial SNAP payment
Illinois quick hits: State EPA looks to fund EV charging stations; Tax Foundation says mayor’s proposal would hinder employment;
Federal Lobbyists Brief Will County on Government Shutdown, Warn of SNAP and TSA Disruptions
Frankfort Board Approves Final Plats for Crystal Brook and Copper Creek Subdivisions
Commission Approves Mokena-Area Garage Variance Over Village’s Objection
Will County Committee Advances Gougar Road Bridge Project with Over $540,000 in Agreements
JJC Receives Surprise $1.9 Million from IRS Employee Retention Credit
JJC Advances ERP Modernization with New Vendor and Two-Year Budget
Park District Reviews Emergency Response After Frankfort Square Shelter-in-Place
Will County Committee Shapes 2026 Legislative Agendas on Housing, Energy, and Health
Frankfort Library Board Moves to Explore Community Solar Power