The Illinois Tollway and Cook County have announced the completion of a new ramp that will provide access from the southbound Tri-State Tollway (I-294) to North Avenue via County Line Road. The new ramp is part of the broader North Avenue Interchange Project, which aims to reduce congestion and support local business development in the area.
Cassaundra Rouse, Executive Director of the Illinois Tollway, stated, “Expanding local access from the Tollway through ramps like this can have a significant impact on the local and regional economies. I am proud of our partnership with Cook County, which has allowed us to provide major mobility improvement for local and Tollway travel throughout the area.”
A ceremony was held with officials from Cook County, the Illinois Tollway, and representatives from communities such as Northlake and Elmhurst to mark the completion of this phase of construction. The new ramp at County Line Road is scheduled to open for traffic on Saturday, December 20.
Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle said, “Cook County’s strong partnership with the Illinois Tollway enabled this major connection for freight, commuters and businesses. By leveraging our local funds, we are able to bring the benefits of the Tollway’s investments directly into our communities. Government agencies working together benefits all our residents.”
The North Avenue Interchange is one of I-294’s busiest intersections and serves as a vital link for freight movement and daily commuters. Congestion in this corridor has particularly affected industrial districts in Northlake by increasing travel times.
Previously, drivers without direct access to North Avenue from southbound I-294 had to use alternate interchanges such as I-290/I-88, which added to regional congestion. The project introduces new connections designed to improve access between I-294, North Avenue, and Lake Street.
It is estimated that over 5,700 vehicles per day will use the newly constructed ramp. Passenger cars will pay an I-PASS toll rate of 30 cents; truck rates will range from $1.20 to $3.05 during daytime hours with discounted overnight rates available.
The project was completed through an intergovernmental agreement between Cook County and the Illinois Tollway. While the Illinois Tollway built the new ramp, Cook County handled other local road improvements. Coordination also involved state agencies such as the Illinois Department of Transportation as well as neighboring municipalities including Franklin Park and Bensenville.
Additional work under this project included reconstructing sections of North Avenue, Northwest Avenue, I-290 Frontage Road, and Lake Street. This effort aimed at improving both traffic flow and safety in these areas.
Key features of the project include widening of the Lake Street Bridge to increase capacity; new direct access routes such as Gateway Road leading onto eastbound North Avenue; upgrades at key intersections; installation of new signals and lighting; as well as improved drainage systems designed to reduce flooding risks during heavy rainfall.
