Lake County PASSAGE provides real-time traffic information about local roads, so you can anticipate, plan and avoid gridlock. The PASSAGE intelligent transportation system uses interconnected signals to manage traffic flow and monitor traffic conditions.

   

The PASSAGE network is continuing to grow. Through the use of federal congestion relief funds, the City of Highland Park and the Lake County Department of Transportation incorporated the traffic signals in Highland Park into PASSAGE. The traffic signals have been retimed, monitoring cameras have been added, and a real-time connection to the Highland Park Police Department has been established. These upgrades will provide better guidance to motorists in this area of Lake County. 

 

Watch this video to learn more about the project.

 

A Jan. 16 workshop offered by the Job Center of Lake County represents a unique team effort with the Lake County Health Department to serve veterans. Steve Ruohomaki, senior therapist with Lake & McHenry Veteran and Family Services, will speak about "Managing the Frustration of Life Changes." The workshop will help participants address the emotions caused by transitions, such as returning home from deployment, income changes, health issues and retirement.

 

Check out the flyer for more information.

 

The federal Emergency Unemployment Compensation (EUC) insurance program will continue through December 2013 after Congress extended the program as part of the fiscal cliff negotiations. Illinois workers collecting EUC should continue to certify for benefits. Congress did not add new weeks to the federal unemployment insurance program, so those who have exhausted EUC are not eligible for additional benefits.

 

Read more from the Illinois Department of Employment Security.

 

If you received a new electronic device this holiday season, think twice before trashing the old one. According to state law, electronic items such as televisions, monitors, computers and printers are no longer allowed in the regular trash. 

 

See a full list of prohibited electronics, as well as a list of Solid Waste Agency of Lake County electronics recycling locations. 

 

You may also consider donating working electronics to a charitable organization, using an at home collection service or recycling them at a retail store. 

 

When traveling in the winter, drivers need to be prepared for almost any contingency. In this video, Bob Grum, the Lake County Health Department's Emergency Response Coordinator, shows motorists how to assemble a winter driving preparedness kit that can prove to be a lifesaver in case of a roadside emergency.

 

Watch now.

 

Winter weather can mean different things to different people. Some people are inspired to get outside and enjoy winter sports. Others just want to curl up in a comfortable chair with a good book. Whatever your choice, this edition of Healthy Lake County provides tips to help you stay safe and healthy at play or at rest.

 

Watch now.