Plainfield Shorewood Area Chamber of Commerce Newsletter - Fall 2025 by Shaw Media

2025 FALL

The Plainfield Shorewood Area Chamber of Commerce welcomes the many businesses and industries to our area.

GET READY TO RUN!

Plainfield Harvest 5K/10K and Kids Mile are coming Sept. 28

SBy Melissa Rubalcaba Riske

triding through the road or cheering from the side the annual Plainfield Harvest 5K/10K Run is a community event for all ages that also benefits the community.

For 27 years the local race has brought out friends, families, competitive runners and those completing their first 5K. From the start line at Village Green Park winding through the downtown and residential streets, more than 800 participants are expected to take part in the 5K, 10K and kids mile run.

The Plainfield-Shorewood Area Chamber of Commerce race committee, comprised of local business owners, village and park district staff, coordinates the annual race, from sponsorships to volunteers on race day.

Race day volunteers include families, businesses and local organizations, explained Tasha Marsaglia, executive director for the Plainfield Shorewood Area Chamber of Commerce. Last year the dance team from the YMCA volunteered at the Mile 2 water station, pumping music in the air and cheering on runners. Also last year, the Plainfield North Cross Country and Track teams volunteered at the finish line handing out finisher medals, Marsaglia said.

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The new naming sponsor for this year’s race is UChicago Medicine AdventHealth Bolingbrook.

“We’re super excited to have them,” Marsaglia said. “Members of AdventHealth have been a part of the race for years so they are very familiar with it and it’s very exciting.”

Marsaglia added there’s still room for additional sponsors and the race relies on donations to supply the post-race food and beverages for participants.

This year marks the 27th year of sponsorship for Friedrich-Jones& Overman Jones Funeral Homes & Cremation Services. Dave Jones was a part of the committee that launched the race and continues to support the race, Marsaglia said.

Since it’s formation, the race was designed to support the community. In the early years, people brought food donations to the race, which were distributed to local food pantries. Today, the race raises funds through sponsorships and race fees, which go back into the community. Marsaglia

said last year the race committee was able to distribute monetary donations to 22 different local organizations.

There’s still time to join the fun. Race prices are $45 for the 10K, $35 for the 5K and $18 for the Kids Mile and this year’s race features a hooded sweatshirt for participants. Race prices will increase Sept. 24 and registrants after that date may not receive a sweatshirt.

DNA Plainfield Active Lifestyle Outfitter sponsors the race bibs and the shop location serves as the packet pick up for the race, a perfect chance for runners to pick up new socks or check out race wear and shoes too. The shop also has a team of runners in the race.

While most run for their personal goals, the race also has a category for racing teams from businesses and a friends and family category.

“If you have three or more friends or family you can join that category and compete for a trophy,” Marsaglia explained.

Last year’s top finisher was a male who completed the 5K, which is 3.1 miles, in 16 minutes and 26 seconds. The 10K winner was a cross country coach from Plainfield North High School, who completed the race in 34 minutes and 48 seconds.

Even the younger runners enjoy the competition. The winner of the Kids Mile finished in six minutes.

“Its been so fun to watch these kids push themselves in the Kids Mile and then, we see them continue in the 5K,” Marsaglia said.

Marsaglia has been a race participant for years and said the best part is the friends and neighbors who come out to cheer on the runners.

“I see so many friends. It makes you feel so good to see them along the race as they cheer,” Marsaglia said.

Seeing friends cheer, the camaraderie of the race and the post-race party in town, make it a fall tradition that brings the community together and helps support local organization.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT in

Strong interest in Plainfield’s residential and commercial areas continues to drive new home building and healthy economic outlook.

More than halfway through 2025 the Village of Plainfield has issued more than 400 permits for new, single-family homes. The strong home building sector continues to bring new residents to the community.

Another positive economic indicator for the community is the very low number of vacancies in the downtown commercial district. After a few years of businesses changing hands and new restaurants establishing roots in Plainfield, the downtown commercial district is holding steady with limited vacancies, said Jake Melrose, Economic Development Director for the Village of Plainfield.

While there are vacancies along the Route 59 corridor, Melrose said there is a fair amount of interest in some of the larger properties, including the spaces with larger square footage, such as the sites of

Plainfield

By Melissa Rubalcaba Riske

the former Wal-Mart and Kohls.

The site of the former BMO Harris Bank at Route 59 and Renwick will be transformed into a Burrito Parrilla. At Route 59 and 135th Street construction is underway for the new Portillo’s Restaurant, with plans for it to open later this year, Melrose said.

Work continues on the new Woodman’s Grocery, which is on track to open fall 2026.

This summer the newest additions to The Boulevard, the commercial development straddling Plainfield and Joliet, including the opening of Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurant and a Panda Express restaurant on the Plainfield side. Melrose said the developers are continuing to talk with businesses interested in some of the remaining space in the development including a possible hotel onsite.

“There’s significant interest but it’s just a matter of balancing what retailers want for rent and the exorbitant costs of ground up construction,” Melrose said.

Later this year construction will begin on adding a new traffic signal to the main entrance of the development to improve traffic flow.

Work continues on the extension of 143rd Street to the east and Melrose said the new roadway is slated to open spring 2026.

Bridge Industrial was recently approved the former Vulcan mining property south of 143rd Street and Route 126 in Plainfield. Bridge Industrial plans to develop the eastern portion of the property and has begun talks to create an intergovernmental agreement to donate approximately 120 acres of land to the Plainfield Park District. This would include the lake area, to create a public recreation lake for the park district. Melrose said it’s estimated to take about five years for the lake to fill, but it presents a significant new park development for the community.

“It’s a great opportunity to add a new public amenity for Plainfield,” Melrose said.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT in Shorewood

New construction to bring more homes to the area continues to bring a positive impact to Shorewood Economic Development, said Natalie Engel, Economic Development Director for the Village of Shorewood.

Work is underway at multiple residential developments in the community including the Town Center II, which is a 139-unit single family residential neighborhood by Lennar. It is located at Peyton Terrace and Wynstone Drive.

The Hamptons is a mixed-use development with 175 rental homes, 72 townhomes and mixed-use buildings with ground floor retail. This development is by Ed Mattox of Kipling Homes. The development includes a clubhouse, pool and recreation areas for its residents.

The new residences in Town Center further create a downtown-like atmosphere for the Village of Shorewood. The village was established in 1957.

One of the enhancements included in the development is a new path system that will bridge multiple neighborhoods and lead residents to a towne center with

By Melissa Rubalcaba Riske

a serene area to walk around pond and provide access to the Village Hall where many events are hosted.

“We have created a place where people want to gather,” Engel said.

Construction is also underway on the Auburn Chase development, south of Seil Road and west of Four Seasons Park. The project calls for two product lines with approximately 277 home lots in the project. The project also includes two large ponds, a walking path, playground and private dog park.

The Village Board has discussed the concept plans for a townhome development on Seil Road. In August the Village Board approved site plans for the construction of a new Restoration Christian Church on southwest Frontage Road south of Seil Road.

Additionally, residents will see the start of infrastructure improvements as part of the move to transfer to Lake Michigan water in 2030, Engel said. Shorewood is part of the Grand Prairie Water Commission, which includes Channahon, Minooka, Romeoville, Crest Hill and Joliet.

Engel said residents will begin to see the construction, including adding lake water receiving station with a reservoirs and watermains.

In business development, work has begun on a new full-service veterinary clinic at the corner of west Jefferson Street and Wynstone Boulevard. Graphic Promotion on Earl Street is seeking to add an addition to its current location.

“We’re excited to see Shorewood businesses grow,” Engel said.

Construction continues on the new Village of Shorewood YMCA at 1801 Jefferson Street, next to the Village Hall. The project is a partnership with the YMCA and the Village of Shorewood. The target opening for the new facility is spring 2026.

“It’s really starting to take shape,” Engel said.

The plans are for a 60,000-square-foot facility that will include a gymnasium, aquatics center, demonstration kitchen, indoor walking track, fitness facility and group exercise studios as well as space for meetings, youth programming, sports and summer camps.

National homebuilder Lennar is providing new single-family housing at Towne Center II in Shorewood.

Photos provided by Village of Shorewood

This year marks a significant milestone in our educational offerings as District 202 high schools will operate on an eightperiod schedule throughout the 2025-26 academic year, providing our students with unprecedented course flexibility and a range of academic options. We’ve added 24 new high school courses, broadening educational pathways and ensuring our students can explore diverse interests while building skills for tomorrow’s workforce.

Entering its second year this fall, the Plainfield 202 INCubatoredu program is offered at all four District 202 high schools. This innovative program is a partnership between the Plainfield Shorewood Area Chamber of Commerce and District 202. The program empowers students to build their businesses through real-world experiences, mentorship, and collaboration. The INCubator business classes began in August 2024,

and student teams create, market, and pitch a product or service to a panel of business and community leaders in a “Shark Tank”-type competition. The winner receives a scholarship to further their education or develop their business model. If you are interested in becoming a volunteer, business mentor, or would like to learn more about the District 202 INCubator program, please contact Dr. Kate Morris, Director of High School Curriculum and Instruction, at kmorris@ psd202.org.

These initiatives were part of the district’s strategic planning goals that were approved by the Board of Education on Dec. 19, 2022. The complete 2023-2028 Strategic Plan can be viewed at www. psd202.org/page/strategic-plan.

Part of our strategic plan is an ongoing comprehensive boundary study that has been conducted to develop long-term enrollment projections and determine

if redistricting is needed in District 202. Working with RSP and Associates since 2023, their approach examines demographics, feeder systems, and enrollment projections to ensure we’re making data-driven decisions that support long-term community stability.

Community members are invited to attend one of two input sessions to learn about the findings of Plainfield 202’s nearly two-year study on student attendance boundaries. Reserve the dates Oct. 8 and Oct. 9. Both sessions will cover the same information. We expect to present recommendations this fall, with any changes implemented in the 2026-2027 school year, providing ample time for families and businesses to plan accordingly.

Mark your calendars for Sept. 20 as we celebrate our community at the 73rd annual Plainfield Homecoming Parade. This tradition honors our village’s rich

We prepare learners for the future.

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history, of which District 202 has been proudly a part for decades.

This fall, four additional schools — Plainfield East, John F. Kennedy Middle School, Liberty, and Elizabeth Eichelberger elementary schools — will now receive free breakfast and lunch through the USDA’s Community Eligibility Provision. This expansion means that in 18 of our schools, students have access to nutritious meals, removing barriers to learning and supporting academic success.

Finally, as we begin this new academic year, we ask parents to continue monitoring their students’ progress, emphasizing the importance of homework completion, and encouraging active engagement in the academic journey. Student success is a collaborative effort between home and school, and your involvement makes all the difference.

Thank you for your ongoing support of Plainfield 202 and your partnership as “We Prepare Learners for the Future.”

By Melissa Rubalcaba Riske

Fresh fruits and salads even the teachers want to order is on the menu this fall as Troy Community Consolidated School District 30-C welcomes its new food service provider.

New menus across the district and building improvements including the addition of modular classrooms at Craughwell Elementary School are some of the changes to start the 2025-26 school year.

Last year the School Board approved a new contract with Quest Food Management Services, which provides a healthy twist on school lunches that encourages students to make healthy choices. Quest focuses on using local products, whole grain foods including pastas and breads and serving fresh fruit as much as possible, explains Sarah Wells, director of communications for Troy School District 30-C. One of the new features of the lunch menu is the fruit and vegetable bar at each school building.

“It encourages our students to make

an active choice to eat fruits and vegetables,” Wells said.

Additionally, Quest can provide catering services, which can be utilized during teacher in-service programs and other events hosted within the district, Wells said. There has been a nominal price increase for elementary lunches, raising it to $3.90.

New classrooms at Craughwell

To ease crowding and meet the demands of growing enrollment at Craughwell Elementary the district has implemented modular classroom addition, and it is far different than the ones of the past. The new modular addition includes eight classrooms, students and staff washroom facilities and staff work space.

Modular classroom units at Craughwell Elementary

The additions connect with the current elementary school building with an indoor walkway, which means students won’t need to exit to the outdoors to connect between the two buildings. The addition also has air conditioning and heating. The addition was located at the rear of the school building, away from Black Road.

The modular addition provides a temporary solution that addresses the school’s immediate need for space. It enables the school to maintain optimal class sizes while providing a comfortable learning environment.

Heritage Trail update

Summer is always a busy time for district operations to tackle building improvements and maintenance. One of the updates is the new HVAC system installed at Heritage Trail Elementary School. The new system replaces a nearly 30 year-old system and provides improved air quality, efficiency and reduced noise in the classroom, Wells added.

New faces

The district welcomed approximately 60 new staff members this school year, which represents an average number of new hires, Wells said. Additionally, there are three new members of the district’s administrative team.

Dr. Gina Isabelli joins the district as the new principal of Cronin Elementary School and it marks a special homecoming for the educator. Isabelli was a student in District 30 as a student and one of her early teaching assignments was in the district.

Suzanne Bement is the new executive director of student services in the district’s administrative offices. In her role she will be overseeing special education services, student athletics and activities and registration.

Rob Beck is the new executive director of technology for the district. He has 29 years of experience in Information Technology and a wealth of understanding for the school management systems.

RIBBON CUTTINGS

CELEBRATING LOCAL BUSINESS

The Plainfield Shorewood Area Chamber of Commerce embraces local business owners and works to promote growth and development in our community, keeping Plainfield a desirable area in which to live, work and shop. A ribbon-cutting ceremony is an important way to announce to the community that a business is open and ready to accept customers, and PACC is proud to partner with our most recent new businesses.

Is your child struggling?

Friendship Lab: In Person

Social Skills Group

Designed to facilitate real-life socializing, allowing participants to use skills learned in “real-time”. This group is a safe and supportive environment for middle school students, age 11-14, to develop and practice social skills over the course of 12 weeks.

Empathy and understanding

Gain confidence in social situations

Learn to build and maintain relationships

Mention

 BARREL & VINE 24027 W. Lockport St., Plainfield

Facilitator Brina Baylian, LCPC

RIBBON CUTTINGS

Welcome new Chamber members:

 APRIL THROUGH MID-AUGUST

FIRST CHOICE INSURANCE AGENCY

1301 W. 22nd St., Suite 805 Oak Brook, IL 60523 www.fcinsagency.com

GUIDE MY BRAND 2014 Havenhill Dr. Plainfield, IL 60586 www.guidemybrand.com

SOUTH SIDE DETAIL

2800 Crested Butte Trail Plainfield, IL 60586 www.southsidedetail.com

RED ASPEN ACUPUNCTURE 2531 Division St., Suite 102 Joliet, IL 60435 www.redaspenacupuncture.com

FRIEND OF CHAMBER – MAI NGUYEN Joined in April

CONTRACTORS ASSOCIATION OF WILL & GRUNDY COUNTIES 233 Springfield Ave. Joliet, IL 60435 www.cawgc.org

BELISLE CONSTRUCTION, INC. 1914 Donmaur Dr. Crest Hill, IL 60403 www.bcibelisle.com

BLUE HERON BAGELS

Shorewood, IL www.facebook.com/ shorewoodblueheronbagels

INTEGRITY SENIOR CARE

16310 S. Lincoln Hwy., Unit 106 Plainfield, IL 60586 www.integrityseniorcare.org

COOPER’S HAWK WINERYRESTAURANT

16344 S. Boulevard Pl. Plainfield, IL 60586 www.chwinery.com

LIFETIME FITNESS 1220 Lakeview Dr. Romeoville, IL 60446 www.lifetime.life

JOHN GREENE REALTOR 1311 S. Route 59 Naperville, IL 60564 www.johngreenerealtor.com

PLAINFIELD CHRISTIAN REFORMED CHURCH 12410 S. Van Dyke Rd. Plainfield, IL 60585 www.plainfieldcrc.org

ATI PHYSICAL THERAPY

13327 S. Route 59 Plainfield, IL 60585 www.atipt.com

ALLOY PERSONAL TRAINING

4827 S. Route 59 Naperville, IL 60564 www.alloypersonaltraining.com/ location/south-naperville-il

EDWARD JONES- SAMUEL WILLIAMS

735 Essington Rd. Joliet, IL 60435

www.edwardjones.com/us-en/financialadvisor/samuel-williams

MONOLITH PLUMBING

23 Hickory Ct. Yorkville, IL 60560 www.monolithplumber.com

TRINITY SERVICES, FAMILY COUNSELING CENTER

301 Veterans Pkwy. New Lenox, IL 60451 www.trinityservices.org

PINK’S WINDOWS SOUTHWEST CHICAGOLAND

Plainfield, IL

www.pinkswindows.com/southwestchicagoland

THE SMOOTH PEACH WAX STUDIO

863 Center Ct., Unit C Shorewood, IL 60404

www.thesmoothpeachwaxstudio. glossgenius.com

LUMINOUS HAIR LOUNGE

16108 Route 59, Unit 200 Plainfield, IL 60586 www.luminoushairlounge.com

LARSON ENGINEERING

1488 Bond St., Suite 100 Naperville, IL 60563 www.larsonengr.com

INZONE INSURANCE SERVICES

Joined in June

TUFFY TIRE & AUTO SERVICE OF PLAINFIELD

23846 W. 135th St. Plainfield, IL 60544 www.tuffyplainfield.com

PRONTO MECHANICAL SERVICES

20 Century Dr. Oswego, IL 60543 www.prontoms.cpm

TURNER & ASSOCIATES- AMERIPRISE FINANCIAL

223 S. Batavia Ave., Suite 202 Batavia, IL 60510 www.ameripriseadvisors.com/jeffrey. turner

ONE DAY DOORS & CLOSETS OF CHICAGOLAND

13717 S. Route 30 Unit 105a Plainfield, IL 60544 www.onedaychicagoland.com

KRE8TIVE-SPACES

12617 Canterbury Dr. Plainfield, IL 60585 www.kre8tive-spaces.com

THE ESSENTIAL HOUSEKEEPING

3333 Warrenville Rd., Suite 200 Lisle, IL 60532 www.theessentialhousekeeping.com

MAD HATCHET BREWING 913 Brook Forest Ave. Shorewood, IL 60404 www.madhatchetbrewing.com

ABSOLUTE INTEGRATED HEALTH CENTER

16310 S. Lincoln Hwy., #124 Plainfield, IL 60586 www.absoluteintegratedhealthcenter.com

BOOSTED BEAUTY BAR

15104 S. James St. Plainfield, IL 60544 www.boostedbeautybar.com

FAIRWAY MORTGAGE BRANCH 5880 3420 Lacrosse Ln., 115 Naperville, IL 60564 www.easy-homeloans.com

HAPPY BELLY

14903 S. Center St., #101 Plainfield, IL 60544

www.happybellychefs.com

PEAK WELLNESS CENTERS

12337 S. Route 59, Ste. 111 Plainfield, IL 60585 www.peakwellnessillinois.com

SPARTAN BOXING CLUB

10160 Clow Creek Rd. Plainfield, IL 60585

EUROPEAN INTEGRATIVE WELLNESS

387 Shuman Blvd. Naperville, IL 60563 www.europeanintegrativewellness.com

NIRVANA PERMANET MAKEUP

805 W. Jefferson St., Suite I Shorewood, IL 60404 www.nirvanapmu.com

PORTILLO’S PLAINFIELD

13470 Route 59 Plainfield, IL 60585 www.portillos.com/index.html

YOURTEQ LLC

15124 S. Route 59 Plainfield, IL 60544 www.yourteq.com

AJ TECHNOLOGY COMPANY

13231 W. 143rd St. Homer Glen, IL 60491 www.ajtc.net

HR COMPLIANCE SOLUTIONS

429 N. Weber Rd., Ste. B-142 Romeoville, IL 60446 www.hrcompliancesolutionshr4hr.com

TECHNEST LLC

13927 Meadow Ln. Plainfield, IL 60544 www.technestpros.com

HUB HOUSE MOBILE SERVICES &FITTINGS, LLC 11247 Anvil Ct. Naperville, IL 60564 www.hubhousemobile.com

WHY JOIN THE CHAMBER?

The PSACC exists to help you grow your business and to ensure the economy of our region is strong. By investing in the Chamber, you invest in your business and the future of the economy you depend on. Membership in the Plainfield Shorewood Area Chamber offers vast benefits. No matter your goal, our benefits will help your business make a big impact. As a Chamber member, your business will get:

• Marketing & Advertising: Need to connect with potential customers? Our marketing options can position your business as a proactive business and community leader.

• Networking: Need additional business contacts? The Chamber holds regular networking events so members can meet and exchange ideas, develop business relationships and increase their professional network.

SERVING THE NEEDS OF THE TOWNSHIP RESIDENTS

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Call to schedule an appointment for marriage licenses or passports! Take advantage of our senior shuttle bus and medical loan closet.

No appointment is needed to speak with our staff. Contact us with any questions regarding your property ’s assessment or exemptions. Most homeowners qualify for the General Homestead Exemption. Review the tax bill of your primary residence to see if you are taking advantage of this savings! Visit our website for additional information.

www.plainfield

Highway | (815) 436-6090

The Highway Department is responsible for approximately 50 miles of roadway! Contact us for permits, leaf pick up, and snow removal. Call us with any questions.

• Ribbon Cuttings: These ceremonies offer an opportunity to meet business community members and get acquainted with your neighbors and Chamber members.

• LEADS Groups: People do business with people they trust. The purpose of LEADS Groups is to generate business opportunities for Chamber members through the building and strengthening of professional relationships in a mutually supportive and noncompetitive environment.

• Referrals: Looking for potential customers and leads? The Chamber can help. Each day the Chamber receives phone calls and emails from potential customers looking for businesses that can help them with specific goods or services.

• Committees & Taskforces: Looking to position your company as a business leader? How about heightening awareness of your business and enhancing your public profile? Get involved

• Sponsorship Opportunities: Need to engage a new target market? Chamber members maintain top-ofmind awareness for their products and services by sponsoring one of our highly promoted business events.

• Free advertising for your business: On our website that receives over 200,000 unique visits each year and in the 5,000 copies of our annual directory, every PSACC member is listed. You’ll also have access to a wide variety of advertising and sponsorship opportunities.