Joliet Proposes New Housing at Mall and West Side

The draft plan outlines new multifamily units and retail integration across three key city areas for the first time in 60 years.

Updated on Oct. 31, 2026 in Commercial

Isometric editorial illustration depicting a planned suburban development with residential blocks and retail units in a muted, saturated palette. — Joliet has introduced a comprehensive plan to integrate multifamily housing with commercial space at the Louis Joliet Mall and other key sites. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Live Poll

Do you support the development of new multifamily housing projects in your community?

Joliet has unveiled a new draft comprehensive plan that proposes bringing multifamily housing to the Louis Joliet Mall, the West Side near Ridge Road, and South Chicago Street. The project aims to integrate residential units with commercial and retail space to revitalize local areas.

Why it matters

This plan marks the first time in 60 years that the city has updated its comprehensive strategy, signaling a significant shift in how residential and commercial zones are integrated. It focuses on transforming vacant spaces and improving retail access for local residents.

The draft proposes development across three city sites including the Louis Joliet Mall and areas along South Chicago Street. More than 75 residents attended the initial workshop to review these plans.

The players

Joliet City Council

The local governing body responsible for setting municipal policy, zoning regulations, and infrastructure investments for residents.

The details

The proposal seeks to mix multifamily housing designs with existing commercial and retail office space to create sustainable residential hubs. By densifying areas like the Louis Joliet Mall and the West Side, the city aims to provide more localized commerce and housing options. Officials are currently collecting public feedback through an online simulation to refine these mixed-use developments.

Thursday, Oct 29, 2026: Community workshop held at Joliet West High School.
Nov. 30, 2026: Deadline for submitting public comments on the draft plan.
Feb. 2, 2027: Target date for City Council approval of the final plan.

The Home Front

This proposal represents the first comprehensive update to the city's urban framework in six decades. It marks a shift toward mixed-use development, moving away from the patterns established by the 1966 Joliet comprehensive plan.

Residents should review the draft proposals online and provide feedback before the Nov. 30 deadline. Tracking the project's progress is essential for homeowners near the Louis Joliet Mall or Ridge Road, as these areas face significant land-use changes.

The takeaway

Joliet is moving to modernize its residential landscape by integrating housing directly into retail and commercial zones. Residents should monitor the official city portal for upcoming public hearings scheduled for early 2027 to stay informed on local zoning impacts.