Omer Osman Secretary of Transportation | LinkedIn
Omer Osman Secretary of Transportation | LinkedIn
Governor JB Pritzker has announced a $24.6 million investment to improve the Bob Michel Bridge in Peoria. The project is part of the Rebuild Illinois capital program, aimed at revitalizing infrastructure across the state. The bridge, which facilitates over 17,000 vehicles daily on Illinois 40, will undergo redecking and other upgrades.
The improvement works are set to commence on March 13 and will close the bridge for eight months. Traffic will be redirected via Interstate 74 and the Murray Baker Bridge during this period. However, access for bicycles and pedestrians will remain open throughout the construction.
Governor Pritzker stated, "I'm proud to announce this $24.6 million investment in the Bob Michel Bridge that carries Illinois 40 over the water, facilitating the journey of over 17,000 vehicles each day." He emphasized that Rebuild Illinois focuses on longstanding infrastructure issues while supporting job creation.
Lt. Governor Juliana Stratton highlighted that this project would enhance transportation safety and foster economic development in Peoria. "This $24.6 million project to enhance the Bob Michel Bridge will provide smoother and safer transportation," she said.
Illinois Transportation Secretary Omer Osman mentioned that under Gov. Pritzker's leadership, investments are being made statewide to improve connectivity and safety: "The Bob Michel Bridge is the latest example of a Rebuild Illinois project that's been expedited."
Besides improvements to the Bob Michel Bridge, other significant projects under Rebuild Illinois include a $10 million rehabilitation of another bridge starting in March and ongoing work on several others with anticipated completion dates extending into 2026.
Rebuild Illinois has allocated funds for various infrastructure enhancements throughout Peoria County as well as neighboring areas, including road improvements and transit system upgrades. Since its inception in 2019, it has committed $33.2 billion towards improving transportation systems across all modes statewide.
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