City of Joliet Named REjournals 2026 City/County of the Year

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Recognition Highlights Unprecedented Investment, Economic Growth and Transformational Development Across the Community

JOLIET, Ill. — The City of Joliet has been named City/County of the Year at the 2026 REjournals Commercial Real Estate Awards, one of the Midwest’s premier recognitions honoring excellence in commercial real estate development, economic growth and community impact.

The award recognizes Joliet’s remarkable momentum over the past year, highlighted by hundreds of millions of dollars in new investment, transformative redevelopment projects, major infrastructure improvements, residential growth and nationally significant economic development initiatives. Among the projects cited in the city’s award submission were the continued expansion of Rock Run Collection, the opening of the new Hollywood Casino Joliet, downtown revitalization efforts, industrial and logistics development, and the City’s strategic investments in infrastructure and economic growth.

Over the last 14 months, Joliet has experienced more than $1 billion in construction valuation across 2024 and 2025 while advancing projects that are creating jobs, attracting new residents and businesses, and strengthening the city’s position as one of the fastest-growing economic engines in Illinois.

A major contributor to that momentum has been Rock Run Collection, the 300-plus-acre super-regional mixed-use destination at the crossroads of Interstates 55 and 80. Recent milestones include the opening of Hollywood Casino Joliet, the continued lease-up of The View at Rock Run Collection, the opening of Chipotle, and construction progress on Dick’s House of Sport continues to attract national retailers, restaurants, entertainment operators and hospitality brands while generating significant economic impact for the region.

“Joliet has established itself as one of the premier development destinations in the Midwest because of its vision, leadership and willingness to invest in its future,” said Diane Cullinan Oberhelman, Chairman of Cullinan Properties. “The City has created an environment where transformational projects can succeed, and Rock Run Collection is a direct result of that commitment. We are proud to partner with the City of Joliet and congratulate Mayor D’Arcy, the City Council and city staff on this well-deserved recognition.”

”This recognition reflects the confidence that businesses, developers, and investors continue to place in Joliet,” said Paulina Martinez, Economic Development Director for the City of Joliet. “Our team is focused on fostering strategic growth, supporting business expansion, and creating an environment where investment can succeed. We appreciate REjournals for highlighting the progress taking place in Joliet and the partnerships that help make it possible.”

The award submission highlighted a wide range of accomplishments, including downtown redevelopment projects such as the Murphy Building conversion and City Square, industrial expansion, major transportation improvements, and residential growth.

“This award validates what many of us have known for years: Joliet is one of the most exciting growth stories in Illinois,” said Beth Beatty, Joliet City Manager. “The scale of investment, the diversity of projects and the collaboration between the public and private sectors are creating opportunities that will benefit our community for generations. It is exciting to see Joliet receive recognition on a regional stage.”

Mayor Terry D’Arcy said the award reflects years of collaboration and commitment across both the public and private sectors.

”Joliet’s transformation over the past several years has been remarkable, and this award is a testament to the vision, hard work, and collaboration that continue to drive our city forward,” said Mayor Terry D’Arcy. “From major economic development projects to investments in infrastructure and quality-of-life improvements, we are building a stronger future for our residents. We are honored to be named REjournals’ City/County of the Year and remain committed to creating new opportunities for our community.”

The REjournals Commercial Real Estate Awards celebrate outstanding achievements across all sectors of commercial real estate throughout the Midwest. The City/County of the Year award recognizes municipalities that demonstrate exceptional leadership, economic development success, public-private partnerships and a commitment to fostering investment and growth.

Also in attendance at the award’s presentation was Councilman Juan Moreno who continues to see the growth and vibrance of Joliet.

“Great communities are built through investment, opportunity and a shared vision for the future. The projects being recognized today are helping create jobs, attract new businesses, expand housing options and strengthen the quality of life for Joliet residents,” said Councilman Moreno.  “This recognition reflects the hard work of many people who are committed to making Joliet a place where families can thrive and future generations can succeed.”

As Joliet continues to advance projects across retail, residential, industrial, hospitality and entertainment sectors, city leaders and development partners believe this recognition further reinforces Joliet’s emergence as one of the most dynamic and opportunity-rich markets in the Midwest.

The City of Joliet is located in Will and Kendall counties in the State of Illinois, 30 miles (48 km) southwest of Chicago. It is the county seat of Will County. At the 2020 census, the City was the third largest in Illinois, with a population of 150,362. For more information about the City, visit https://www.joliet.gov.

Cullinan Properties is a nationally recognized commercial real estate development company specializing in mixed-use, retail, multifamily, office, healthcare, and government projects. For nearly four decades, Cullinan Properties has been committed to creating places that drive economic growth, strengthen communities, and deliver long-term value.

The REjournals Real Estate Awards recognize outstanding achievements, projects, and professionals across the commercial real estate industry. Celebrating excellence in development, investment, leasing, design, construction, and community impact, the awards highlight the individuals and organizations shaping the built environment and driving growth throughout their respective markets.