Prairie State Wire

The Illinois Department of Transportation has announced significant progress in the Kankakee area as part of Year Five of the Rebuild Illinois initiative. The program, backed by Governor JB Pritzker's capital plan, involves 12 projects with a total investment of $263.5 million aimed at enhancing safety and mobility while supporting job creation.

Governor Pritzker emphasized the impact of the initiative, stating, "Rebuild Illinois is revitalizing communities and neighborhoods by investing in projects and people in the Kankakee area and throughout the state." He added that this effort aims to build a more resilient transportation system for future generations.

Among the ongoing projects, four are set to be completed this year, three by the end of 2024, and five will commence between 2025 and 2027. Key projects include bridge replacements on Waldron Road over Interstate 57 and I-57 over Grinnell Road, intersection improvements at Illinois 50 at Armour Road in Bradley, and various other infrastructure enhancements.

State Senator Patrick Joyce expressed satisfaction with the progress: "It is great to see much-needed projects being close to finished in Kankakee and surrounding areas." State Representative Thaddeus Jones highlighted how these investments improve access between communities while creating local jobs. Meanwhile, State Representative Nick Smith noted that these efforts invest in both small and large communities across Illinois.

Kankakee Mayor Chris Curtis acknowledged the economic benefits brought by these developments: "The momentum of new commercial, industrial and residential developments is adding substantial revenue, jobs and opportunity for our residents."

Rebuild Illinois was passed in 2019 with a commitment to invest $33.2 billion over six years into upgrading transportation infrastructure statewide. It is notable for addressing all modes of transportation including roads, bridges, transit systems, waterways, railways, aviation facilities as well as bicycle paths.

Illinois Transportation Secretary Omer Osman reminded drivers about ongoing construction activities: "When you see orange [construction signs], stay patient, drop the devices and slow down."

To date under Rebuild Illinois approximately $12.1 billion has been invested improving highways bridges along with additional safety measures statewide.

For further information about ongoing Rebuild Illinois projects visit https://idot.click/Rebuild-Illinois or follow IDOT District 3 updates on Twitter @IDOTDistrict3.