Prairie State Wire

Governor JB Pritzker, alongside officials from the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), the city of Springfield, Sangamon County, and other state and local entities, announced the commencement of a significant construction project in Springfield. The $68.3 million underpass construction at Madison and Jefferson Streets marks another phase in the ongoing Springfield Rail Improvements Project.

The initiative aims to alleviate traffic congestion by separating railroad tracks from regular vehicle routes. Governor Pritzker highlighted the project's benefits: "Thanks to a $68.3 million investment, we are breaking ground on new Madison Street and Jefferson Street underpasses to not only improve our rail system but to also provide much-needed safety improvements and accommodations that everyone — from bicyclists to pedestrians — will benefit from."

The streets will be closed between 9th and 11th Streets for approximately 14 months, depending on weather conditions. The construction involves lowering these streets and building new railroad bridges for existing Norfolk Southern Railroad lines, as well as proposed Union Pacific Railroad and Amtrak lines.

Madison and Jefferson Streets accommodate around 20,000 vehicles daily and are vital routes for emergency services accessing nearby hospitals. Funding includes contributions of $13.5 million from the Federal Railroad Administration, $30.9 million from the Illinois Commerce Commission, and $23.9 million from IDOT.

State Senator Doris Turner emphasized the impact on local infrastructure: "Congestion in Downtown Springfield can be hectic... This investment not only uplifts the city but also takes into account the safety, livability, and development of Springfield for years to come."

State Representative Sue Scherer noted that these efforts would make commutes safer while expanding transportation options across Central Illinois: "These investments are just one of the latest in recent moves to build a stronger Illinois."

Illinois Transportation Secretary Omer Osman added: "Rebuild Illinois is delivering transformational projects up and down the state... These underpasses will improve safety and mobility in the capital city."

Tim Butler, President of the Illinois Railroad Association, praised Governor Pritzker's leadership: "This community-led effort is a national example of working with our private railroads... to create a safer and more efficient rail system."

Passed in 2019, Rebuild Illinois is investing $33.2 billion into enhancing statewide transportation over six years.