The Village of Park Forest experienced its first snowfall of the season over the weekend and into Monday morning, providing residents with an early reminder that another Midwest winter is on the way.
As snowflakes fell, many may have wondered how the Village prepares for — and manages — the snow that comes each year. The answer lies with the Public Works Department, which plays a crucial role in keeping the community safe during winter weather.
Public Works Director Roderick Ysaguirre and his team maintain more than 65 miles of roadway throughout the Village. That includes major thoroughfares, such as Orchard Drive and Indianwood Boulevard, as well as neighborhood streets that connect homes, schools, and businesses.
“Our goals are simple — safe roadway surfaces and protecting our environment,” Ysaguirre said. “When snow starts to accumulate, we follow a strategic plan that prioritizes the roads most essential for travel and emergency response. We also apply best management practices to protect the environment.”
That plan activates as soon as the forecast calls for measurable snow. Plowing typically begins after two inches have accumulated. Crews start with two groups of three 2.5-ton snow trucks plowing in tandem to clear the Village’s two main salt and plow routes. Once those primary routes are open, the teams divide into three pairs to begin clearing secondary and local streets.
“It takes around three to four hours to make one pass along main routes and another three to four hours for secondary and local routes,” Ysaguirre said. “It’s a process that takes time, especially during large or prolonged snowfalls. But our crews work continuously — often through the night — until the job is done.”
Park Forest’s main plow routes include heavily traveled roads such as Blackhawk Drive, Westwood Drive, Wildwood Drive, Indiana Street, Illinois Street, Shabbona Drive, Lakewood Boulevard, North Street, Dogwood Street, Alleghany Street, and Algonquin Street. These are cleared first to ensure access for emergency vehicles, followed by side streets and cul-de-sacs.
Ysaguirre said residents play an essential role in helping plow operations run smoothly.
“The biggest help residents can provide is moving vehicles off the street during snow events,” Ysaguirre noted. “When roads are clear, our plows can work faster and more effectively.”
To support this effort, the Snow Route Parking Ban takes effect whenever two inches or more of snow or ice accumulate on Village streets. The ban remains in place until all snow and ice are removed. Vehicles left on the street during this time may be ticketed or towed.
Residents in multi-family areas, co-ops, condos, or homeowners' associations should note that snow removal in those areas is typically handled by private contractors. Ysaguirre encourages residents to contact their property management or HOA if they’re unsure who’s responsible.
Ahead of each winter, crews inspect and service all plows, salt spreaders, and equipment, and stock up on salt brine and road salt to ensure readiness for the first storm — as this weekend’s snowfall demonstrated.
“Snow removal isn’t just about clearing roads — it’s about keeping the community connected,” Ysaguirre said. “When residents can get to work, kids can get to school, and emergency services can respond quickly, that’s when we know we’ve done our job.”
As winter 2025–2026 unfolds, Park Forest residents can rest assured their Public Works team is ready — plows down, lights on, and dedicated to keeping the Village moving safely through whatever the season brings.