Our Impact

Aerial photo of 26453 & 26537 S Walton Drive in Elwood, IL
Our Impact Overview

Transforming a Military Site into an Economic Powerhouse

Since its inception, the Joliet Arsenal Development Authority (JADA) has led one of the most successful military base redevelopment projects in the nation. By transforming a decommissioned arsenal into North America’s Largest Inland Port, JADA has created economic growth, job opportunities, and global trade connections while ensuring long-term benefits for Will County and beyond.

Economic Growth & Job Creation

JADA’s redevelopment efforts have:

7,750+ Permanent Jobs Created

Providing opportunities for thousands of local residents. Also creating 10,200+ union construction jobs.

Millions in Tax Revenue Generated

Supporting local municipalities and infrastructure improvements.

75M Bushels of Agricultural Products Annually

Strengthening the region's role in global commerce.

$3 Billion in Private Investment

Fueling the expansion of intermodal centers, business parks, and logistics hubs.

JADA's Partnerships

Driving Innovation Through Public-Private Partnerships

JADA's success is built on strong public-private partnerships, which have allowed it to leverage private investment and public resources to fuel sustainable regional growth. Some key collaborations include:
Pace Public Transit Expansion

A collaborative effort to improve workforce connectivity through expanded bus routes and transit services.

Jackson Generation

A $1 billion power facility supporting regional energy needs while creating thousands of construction jobs.

CenterPoint Properties

The anchor developer that transformed the Joliet Arsenal into the nation’s largest master-planned inland port.

Aerial photo of the BNSF LPC Railway - Logistics Park Chicago in Elwood, IL

A Commitment to Sustainability

While economic growth has been a primary focus, JADA has prioritized environmental stewardship throughout the redevelopment process. Some major sustainability initiatives include:

Restoring Nature

375 acres of Dolomite Prairie Restoration to enhance biodiversity and protect native habitats.

 

Sustaining Clean Water

Stormwater Management & Bio-Swale Systems that naturally filter runoff and protect local waterways.

 

Greener Logistics

Energy-Efficient Logistics Operations, including solar power, dark sky lighting, and electric cranes to reduce emissions.

JADA Awards & Recognition

Association of Defense Communities Logo
National Award Winner

Base Redevelopment Community of the Year from the Association of Defense

An artistic photo of a person holding a hard hat
Development

Looking Ahead

JADA continues to implement redevelopment strategies that balance economic expansion with infrastructure efficiency and environmental responsibility. To learn more about how infrastructure investments like Houbolt Road Extension, the I-55 Interchange, and expanded public transit are supporting this growth, visit the Development page.