PUBLIC SAFETY

Expansion to Fire Station 61

Firefighters live at the fire station 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Fire Station 61 was originally built in 1974. Over time DPFD outgrew the space, and it needed updating. With the relocation of Fire Administration staff to City Hall, floor space became available for expansion. The transformation began in September 2022 and included over 18,000 square feet. The interior remodeling project incorporates new larger sleeping quarters, restroom facilities, kitchen, day room, new lockers, and upgrades to key safety and infrastructure elements. To account for limited access throughout the facility, the team at Station 61 adjusted their operations for five months. The crew members continued to serve the residents of Des Plaines without impacting service. The renovations increased square footage, upgraded the facilities and provided more comfortable spaces.

SPEEDING

3X TRIPLES THE ODDS OF CRASHING

1/3 CONTRIBUTES TO A THIRD OF FATAL ACCIDENTS

MPH INJURY =

#SLOWDOWNDESPLAINES

Slow Down Des Plaines

The City and Des Plaines Police Department reminds the community to please slow down while driving through our neighborhoods. Even traveling at 20 mph, it takes between 45 and 60 feet to stop (or 3-4 car lengths). In 2021, Illinois crashes involving speed accounted for 31.9% of total crashes, 44.4% of total fatal crashes and 36.9% of total injury crashes (2021 Illinois Crash Facts & Statistics published by the Illinois Department of Transportation). Even advancements in vehicle safety and passenger protection cannot keep people safe from the dangers of speeding.

We encourage all motorists to follow the posted speed limit and eliminate all distractions. Be alert for children and families playing outside during the summer months.

Warm Weather = Construction Season

As the weather turns warmer, you’ll begin to see construction projects taking shape around town. The City plans and prioritizes infrastructure improvements for our roads, alleys and stormwater/sewer systems as part of its Five-Year Capital Improvement Program (CIP). A full list of City-sponsored projects can be found at desplaines.org/capitalprojects. Additional information, including specific schedules and other project updates, will be shared with affected residents prior to the start of construction activities. We will do our very best to limit impacts and inconvenience.