Public to vote for Best Infrastructure project in Illinois
ANTIOCH – Sequoit Creek Park has been recognized by the American Council of Engineering Companies of Illinois (ACEC Illinois) with a 2026 Engineering Excellence Award, which honors outstanding engineering achievements and celebrates the exceptional work of engineers each year. The distinction qualifies Sequoit Creek Park to be in the running for the 2026 Engineering Works Award, in which the public can vote on the best infrastructure project in Illinois.
Sequoit Creek Park is one of 8 engineering projects recognized across the state, receiving an Honor Award in the category of Special Projects. The public can now cast a vote for their favorite project online at https://www.acecileea.com/engineering-works/ with the winner scheduled to be announced at the ACEC Illinois Awards gala on February 18.
“Engineering firms across the state are revitalizing and rebuilding infrastructure, bridges and roadways for the betterment of all Illinoisians,” said Kevin Artl, President and CEO of the American Council of Engineering Companies of Illinois. “We’re proud of the innovative solutions and outstanding designs of all honorees in the 2026 Engineering Excellence Awards and hope communities feel proud of the local projects which improve our daily lives.”
Commissioned by the Village of Antioch, Sequoit Creek Park was led by Strand Associates as the project submitting firm, with the Lakota Group, Williams Architects, Claassen, White & Associates, P.C., Deigan & Associates, PLLC, and Midland Standard Engineering and Testing, Inc., PDF Engineering LLC, MKM Engineering Inc., and O-Lux Technologies LLC contributing to the success of the project.
The Village utilized a 3.28-acre site in need of redevelopment in the heart of downtown Antioch. Working with firms to design the multiple use space while accenting the natural beauty of Sequoit Creek, resulted in a milestone project to be enjoyed by the entire area.
Strand designed and coordinated integration of other consultants’ designs into a single cohesive set of bidding documents. Strand’s scope included design for underground utilities, electrical and lighting, hydraulic channel conveyance, stormwater, hardscaping, site grading, and structural components of the project. Strand also managed bidding and contract award as well as the construction phase, providing construction administration services and construction observation through completion.
Highlights of Sequoit Creek Park include a splash pad; accessible playground; public performance pavilion, firepits; and concession area with bathrooms, and walkways all focus on the restored creek.
About the American Council of Engineering Companies
Representing hundreds of companies, we are the voice of the engineering industry in Illinois. With roots dating back more than 100 years, ACEC Illinois represents more than 11,000 engineers, architects, land surveyors and other specialists. Our primary mission is to strengthen the business environment for our member firms through government advocacy, political action, and business education. For more information, please visit www.acecil.org.