Village Receives Engineering Award

March 02, 2026

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The Village of Downers Grove was recognized by the American Council of Engineering Companies of Illinois (ACEC Illinois).

Green bike lanes near Grant Street were part of pedestrian and safety improvements on Main Street near Downers Grove North High School.

Village Engineering Manager Stephanie Graves accepted the award on behalf of the Village.

The Village of Downers Grove was recognized by the American Council of Engineering Companies of Illinois (ACEC Illinois) at their Engineering Excellence Awards Gala held on February 18, 2026.

In the category of Small Projects, the Village received a Merit Award for the pedestrian and safety improvements made along Main Street near Downers Grove North High School. Merit awards are given for projects worthy of recognition of the engineer and the owner/client for achieving engineering excellence.

aerial view of Main Street and pedestrian safety project near North High School.

The project reconfigured a portion of the roadway near North High School from four lanes to three. The redesign improves traffic flow with a center turn lane, reduces crash risk, adds dedicated bike lanes, and enhances walkability without requiring a full reconstruction.