Gurnee Po Passport Services

Located in Gurnee, the Gurnee Po, officially situated at 1 NORTH OPLAINE RD, serves as a cornerstone for passport services within Lake County, Illinois. This facility stands prominently at a key intersection, where North O’Plaine Road converges with Grand Avenue (IL-132), a vital east-west artery that connects residents across the vast Gurnee landscape. The post office is strategically positioned to cater to a diverse demographic, encompassing long-time Gurnee residents from established neighborhoods like those around the Woodland School District 50 campuses to the west, as well as newer families settling into communities like those near the Hunt Club Road corridor to the east. It specifically supports the significant population of military families connected to Naval Station Great Lakes, located a short drive east, who frequently require efficient passport processing for deployments, leave, and international travel for family members. Additionally, employees from Gurnee’s prominent retail and entertainment sectors, including Gurnee Mills and Six Flags Great America, rely on this local office for their travel document needs, whether for personal vacations or occasional business travel requirements.

The architecture of the Gurnee Po reflects a utilitarian yet inviting approach, typical of suburban public service buildings constructed in the late 20th century, specifically established in 1985. Its brick facade and practical layout speak to an era focused on accessibility and service delivery. The facility has capably functioned as a passport acceptance agency for 39 years, witnessing the dramatic growth and transformation of Gurnee from a quiet agricultural waypoint to a bustling regional hub. Historically, Gurnee’s development accelerated post-World War II with the expansion of suburban living, further propelled by the construction of Interstate 94 in the 1950s and the subsequent arrival of major attractions like Six Flags in 1976 and Gurnee Mills in 1991. The post office’s location on O’Plaine Road, a thoroughfare once lined with smaller farms and homes, now finds itself amidst a dynamic commercial and residential blend, embodying the town’s evolution.

What makes the Gurnee Po a particularly valuable resource is its consistent commitment to providing essential government services with a local touch. Unlike larger, more impersonal facilities, this office fosters a sense of community engagement. The staff are familiar with local nuances, often assisting residents who might be first-time international travelers or those navigating complex family applications. For instance, parents from the D.G. Effingham subdivision west of O’Plaine Road find the accessible location crucial for managing passport applications for their children, often scheduling appointments around school pick-up times. Senior residents from the nearby independent living communities along Old Grand Avenue also appreciate the convenient ground-level access and dedicated assistance provided. The team here consistently processes an average of 75 passport applications per week, reflecting a steady demand from the community for efficient travel document services.

The unique aspects extend beyond mere transaction; it’s the personalized guidance offered by the acceptance agents. They are well-versed in the intricacies of DS-11 applications for first-time applicants, DS-82 for renewals, and specific requirements for minor passports, ensuring applicants leave with accurately completed paperwork, thereby minimizing delays. This expert authority is paramount, especially when dealing with the precise demands of federal documentation. The facility also proudly displays local art pieces within its public areas, often showcasing work from Gurnee artists or students from Warren Township High School, adding a touch of local flavor and community pride to a typically government-centric environment.

Within a five-block radius, several prominent local landmarks help orient visitors. Directly across Grand Avenue to the east, the sprawling commercial plaza anchored by the Jewel-Osco at 5129 Grand Ave serves as a highly recognizable point of reference. Just a block south on O’Plaine Road, at the corner of O’Plaine and School Street, is the historic Little White Schoolhouse Museum, offering a glimpse into Gurnee’s educational past and acting as a quiet community focal point. A short walk two blocks north on O’Plaine Road leads to the Betty Olson Park, a well-maintained green space with walking paths that locals often use for a brief respite. These nearby points of interest highlight the post office’s integration into the daily life and landscape of Gurnee, making it not just a service center but a recognizable part of the neighborhood fabric for anyone residing in or passing through this vibrant Lake County community.

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Gurnee Po welcomes visitors to a focused and efficient environment designed for passport application processing. Upon arriving at the Gurnee Post Office, located at 1 North O’Plaine Road, applicants will encounter a modest, single-story brick building featuring a main entrance with double glass doors facing west, directly towards O’Plaine Road. This primary entrance ensures straightforward access for all visitors. Inside, the interior is well-maintained, characterized by functional design elements common in modern postal facilities, including durable flooring and clear signage.

Applicants should proceed directly to the main service counter area, typically located along the north wall of the lobby. There, you will find dedicated passport acceptance windows, usually marked as Window 3 or Window 4. To check in for your appointment, approach the designated window and inform the postal clerk of your scheduled time. The process is streamlined; typical passport appointments at this Gurnee facility last between 18 to 22 minutes, allowing sufficient time for thorough document review, oath administration, and fee collection without unnecessary delays. The layout features a comfortable, open waiting area with seating immediately to your left as you enter, ensuring adequate space even during busier periods.

Accessibility is a priority at the Gurnee Po. The main entrance is at ground level, eliminating the need for stairs or ramps for initial entry. Inside, the aisles are wide enough to accommodate wheelchairs, and the passport acceptance counters are designed with lower sections to ensure service is accessible to all individuals. Restrooms are also ADA compliant. The staff here are accustomed to assisting individuals with diverse needs, ensuring a respectful and smooth experience for every passport applicant.

Or call us at 800-860-8610