International Day of Peace Celebration & Peace Walk in Joliet 2024

International Day of Peace Celebration & Peace Walk in Joliet 

On Saturday, September 21, 2024, from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM, the community is invited to the International Day of Peace Celebration & Peace Walk in the cafeteria of Joliet Central High School, 201 E Jefferson St, Joliet, IL 60432. The event is hosted by the Nonviolent Cities Project—Joliet, in partnership with Joliet Township Government’s Community Violence Intervention (CVI). This gathering aims to foster a culture of peace, aligning with the United Nations’ 25th anniversary of the Declaration and Programme of Action on a Culture of Peace. 

Event Agenda & Highlights: 

  • 1:00 PM: Doors open. Attendees can explore resource tables, meet with local service providers, and enjoy light refreshments. 
  • 1:30 PM – 3:00 PM: A series of speeches from community leaders, including Keshia Ellis (Joliet Township Violence Prevention Director), Doug Kasper (Chair for Nonviolent Cities Project -Joliet), Alicia Morales (Joliet Township Government Supervisor), Cesar Guerrero (Joliet City Councilman) Jennifer Bertino-Tarrant (Will County Executive), Rachel Ventura (IL State Senator), and keynote speaker Ernest Crim (Public Teacher, Author). 
  • 3:15 PM: A reflective outdoor Peace Walk around the school will take place, symbolizing the commitment to promoting peace within the community. 

Alicia Morales, Joliet Township Government Supervisor said, “Our community is strongest when we come together to foster understanding, compassion, and nonviolence. This event is a chance for all of us to contribute to a safer, more peaceful Joliet.” 

Doug Kasper, Chair for Nonviolent Cities Project -Joliet, said, “The International Day of Peace is more than just a day—it’s a movement. By participating in this walk and hearing from our community leaders, we are all taking a stand against violence and laying the foundation for a culture of peace in Joliet.” 

The Nonviolent Cities Project—Joliet is dedicated to envisioning a Joliet free from violence by increasing awareness of nonviolent practices, investing in education and community development, and uniting local organizations and individuals for a just and peaceful society. 

Joliet Township Government’s Community Violence Intervention (CVI) is a comprehensive initiative launched in 2023 to address gun violence through trauma-based interventions and community-centered strategies. The program includes services such as case management, street outreach, victim advocacy, behavioral health support, and community engagement. 

This event is free and open to the public. Light refreshments will be available throughout the event. The community is encouraged to participate in this significant initiative to cultivate a peaceful and just society 

For more information, please contact Karen Johnson of the Nonviolent Cities Project—Joliet at 312-545-3460 or nvcpjoliet@gmail.com or Nicole Lurry, Community Engagement Coordinator of Joliet Township Government, at 815-593-4453 or nlurry@joliettownship.net. 


Renovated Sugar Creek Bridge Officially Opened with Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony

Joliet, IL — August 26, 2024 — The Joliet Township Road District announced the official opening of the newly renovated Sugar Creek Bridge following a ribbon-cutting ceremony held earlier today. The event marked a significant milestone in the Road District’s commitment to taking on big projects that benefit the community. The project includes vast improvements in neighborhood drainage and walkways.  

 

The Sugar Creek Bridge, located at Sugar Creek Drive and Sugar Valley Lane, has long served as a critical link within the community. The renovation project, managed by Highway Commissioner Vincent Alessio, was completed after years of planning in coordination with Will County. This project highlights the benefits of using multiple sources of funding and expanding the way in which the Road District serves its residents.  

Highway Commissioner Vincent Alessio emphasized the project’s impact and the Road District’s dedication to road improvements noting, “The completion of the Sugar Creek Bridge is a part of a year that includes a nearly 2.3-million-dollar investment into Joliet Township Road District infrastructure this year, which is significantly more than our 1.8-million-dollar levy. This is done by utilizing Motor Fuel Tax dollars and Rebuild Illinois dollars.” 

The renovation of the Sugar Creek Bridge was executed with a focus on safety, accessibility, walkability, and drainage. 

  • Completely renovated bridge from footing to pavement 
  • Improved pedestrian walkways and safety features 
  • Enhanced drainage systems to prevent flooding 

This project underscores the Joliet Township Road District’s dedication to maintaining and improving the essential infrastructure that supports the community’s growth and well-being. 

With the successful completion of the Sugar Creek Bridge renovation, the Joliet Township Road District remains committed to maintaining and upgrading the township’s infrastructure. Future projects will continue to prioritize the safety and accessibility of roadways for all residents.