The Bridge
December 2, 2021
Village Improvement Projects Nearing Completion
Three improvement projects within the Village are substantially complete and include improvements in the Stempel Parking Lot, the new pathway along Robert Parker Coffin Road and new parking spaces at the Buffalo Creek Forest Preserve.
Stempel Parking Lot is fully resurfaced with more parking spots. Some of the new stripes and directional arrows are in place and the remainder will be added when weather permits. These enhancements are in addition to new, two-way traffic lanes at two entrances and underground conduits for future electric vehicle charging stations. The work is expected to increase the service life of the lot by at least 20 years.
The new pathway along Robert Parker Coffin Road from Archer Parking Lot to Route 83 includes a new crosswalk connection to the Sunset Grove Shopping Center, providing improved access for walkers and bikers to and from the Village downtown area. The crosswalk lights at Route 83 are installed and will be activated upon approval by the Illinois Department of Transportation.
New parking areas for visitors to the Buffalo Creek Forest Preserve are now located along the paved drive on Old Hicks Road south of Checker Road. A new back gate and split-rail fence will be installed as weather permits. The project stems from an intergovernmental agreement between the Village and the Lake County Forest Preserve District to reduce parking and traffic issues around the preserve.
First Annual Bridge Lighting Ceremony
The Bridge is now all lit up after the first annual Bridge Lighting Ceremony that took place Friday, November 19. Village President Bill Jacob 'flipped the switch', and Santa Claus himself along with Dog Mayor Lincoln were also a part of the festivities. Music, carriage rides and refreshments were provided to those in attendance. Thank you to the Historic Downtown Long Grove Business Association (HDLGBA), the Long Grove Historical Society, and all the businesses and individuals that supported this event and celebrated this kick off to the holidays. And now that we are in the midst of the season, please consider supporting Long Grove businesses by shopping small and shopping local! To view a list of all businesses in the Village, click here. Photo credit: HDLGBA.
Clothing and Textile Donations
With cold weather approaching, there is a greater need for donations of new or gently used winter clothing, including sweaters, coats, mittens, gloves, scarves and hats. The Village has installed a collection bin in the Archer Municipal Parking Lot through a partnership with the Solid Waste Agency of Lake County (SWALCO) that is accessible 24 hours a day and year-round for clothing and textile donations. Items can be placed directly in the bin or next to it in sealed plastic bags. Click this link for a complete list of acceptable and unacceptable donations. Please note: pillows, rugs and shoes cannot be accepted. SWALCO regularly collects donations, but if it is full, items can be contained in sealed plastic bags and left next to the bin. Approximately 95% of the donated items will be reused, repurposed or recycled.
Candlelight Yoga at Reed-Turner Woodland Nature Center
Reserve your spot for a special two-hour yoga class Saturday, December 18 from 3 - 5 p.m. at Reed-Turner Woodland Nature Center. Relax in the midst of the holiday season with guided stretching and mindful breathing in the warm glow of candlelight.

The class is $20 for individuals ages 16 and up, and pre-registration is required. Call Daria at 847-814-7174 or email dzubkova10@gmail.com to register.

Vintage Holidays Festival in Downtown Continues!
The covered bridge is brightly decked with old-world charm to welcome shoppers and sightseers to the Vintage Holidays festival, which runs every weekend through Sunday, December 19! Visitors can enjoy the sights and sounds of the season amidst the music of strolling carolers and the beauty of festive holiday decorations. Shops and restaurants will feature sales and specials on merchandise, food, drinks and more. Shoppers who spend $150 before tax and tip at any of the downtown merchants will receive a free gift from the Long Grove Visitors Center (maximum of four gifts per person; receipts must date between November 26 and December 19, and are available while supplies last). For the latest updates on downtown holiday happenings, along with store and restaurant hours, visit the Historic Downtown Long Grove Business Association. Photo credit: HDLGBA.
Upcoming Village Meetings

Click the 'View Details' links below the meetings to view agendas and information on how to participate. To view all upcoming and past Village of Long Grove public meetings, agendas and minutes, please click here. Visit the new Get Connected webpage to review the many ways you can connect with the Village. Learn more about the Village's different commissions and committee here.
Plan Commission & Zoning Board of Appeals
Village Board
Meeting
Architectural Commission
December 7
December 14
December 20