Prairie State Wire

Entering its fifth year, the Rebuild Illinois initiative continues to make strides in west Lake County with a series of infrastructure projects aimed at enhancing safety, mobility, and quality of life. These efforts are part of Governor JB Pritzker's capital program, which represents an investment exceeding $31 million in this region alone.

Governor Pritzker emphasized the significance of these developments: "Rebuild Illinois is revitalizing communities and neighborhoods by investing in projects and people in the west Lake County area and throughout the state." He highlighted that this is part of "the largest capital program in state history," aimed at creating a more resilient transportation system while generating jobs.

Five key projects are scheduled for completion by 2024:

- In Antioch, Illinois 173 at Lake Street will see intersection widening with new traffic signals. This project began in 2021.

- Grand Avenue from Sheehan Drive to Munn Road will undergo pavement widening and bridge replacement among other upgrades. Work started in 2021.

- Road widening on Illinois 132 from Cleveland Avenue to Central Avenue commenced this spring.

- Culvert repair on Illinois 60 near Peterson Road began this summer.

- Resurfacing work on U.S. 12 is set to start next spring.

State Senator Mary Edly-Allen remarked that these improvements will enhance safety and mobility: "These projects not only bring good construction jobs, they also increase economic opportunity for the future." State Representative Nabeela Syed added that despite temporary inconveniences due to construction, these efforts contribute to a more equitable transportation network.

Launched in 2019, Rebuild Illinois plans a $33.2 billion investment over six years across various modes of transportation. Achievements so far include improvements on thousands of miles of highways and hundreds of bridges statewide.

Illinois Transportation Secretary Omer Osman urged drivers to be cautious during construction season: "When you see orange, stay patient, drop the devices and slow down."

For updates on ongoing projects, residents can follow IDOT's social media channels or sign up for alerts.