Illinois Department of Transportation issued the following announcement on Dec. 23.
The Illinois Department of Transportation announced today the opening of a new overpass that will improve safety and keep commerce flowing in Williamsville, carrying Valor Parkway over the Union Pacific Railroad and provide direct access from Walnut Street to Old Route 66. The project is made possible by efforts to enhance passenger rail service on the Chicago-St. Louis corridor.
"Transportation improvements that are the result of partnerships always have the greatest impact and the Williamsville overpass is no exception," said Acting Illinois Transportation Secretary Omer Osman. "This project comes to an end today, but the economic impacts, peace of mind for local residents and improved quality of life for Williamsville will continue far into the future."
The total $9.1 million project assures that a route through the Sangamon County community will be open at all times, with residents, police and fire personnel able to travel from one side of town to the other without the potential for delays from passing trains. The overpass also will help reduce harmful emissions from cars and trucks stopped waiting for trains.
"Today marks a great day for the citizens of Williamsville," said Village President Tom Yokley. "This overpass really improves safety by giving school buses and our first responders access to the west side of the railroad tracks without needing to travel across the at-grade crossing at Main Street. We are extremely grateful for everyone who helped make this a reality."
Williamsville oversaw the project, which was made possible by IDOT investing $2.2 million, the Illinois Commerce Commission providing $5.1 million and the village contributing $1.8 million.
Original source can be found here.
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