Prairie State Wire

The Illinois Department of Transportation has announced that several projects are underway or set to begin soon in southern Cook County as part of the Rebuild Illinois initiative. The program, now in its fifth year, is supported by Governor JB Pritzker's capital plan and aims to improve safety, mobility, and quality of life while generating jobs across the region. Nine major projects with a combined investment exceeding $180 million are scheduled for completion by 2025.

Governor Pritzker stated, "Rebuild Illinois is revitalizing communities and neighborhoods by investing in projects and people in the southern Cook County area and throughout the state." He emphasized that these improvements would lead to a more resilient transportation system for future generations.

Key projects include ongoing resurfacing on Interstate 57 from Halsted Street to Interstate 294, expected to finish this fall; reconstruction work on Wood Street/Ashland Avenue, slated for completion in fall 2024; and intersection enhancements on Cicero Avenue at various locations in Crestwood, anticipated to conclude by year-end.

State Senator Elgie Sims expressed pride in the state's progress: "Illinois is leading the way by showing what progress and responsible budgeting look like." He highlighted economic opportunities created through infrastructure investments such as those on Torrence Avenue and 159th Street.

State Representative Debbie Meyers-Martin pointed out tangible benefits for her constituents: "When people in my district ask what Rebuild Illinois is doing for them, I point to projects in Matteson and Tinley Park."

State Representative Marcus C. Evans Jr. stressed the importance of infrastructure investments: "We are not only investing in a higher quality of life. We are also creating good-paying jobs that sustain Illinois families."

The Rebuild Illinois program was launched in 2019 with an allocation of $33.2 billion over six years dedicated to upgrading transportation systems statewide. It encompasses all modes of transport including roads, bridges, transit systems, waterways, railways, aviation facilities, as well as bicycle and pedestrian paths.

To date, approximately $12.1 billion has been invested statewide under this initiative covering thousands of miles of highway improvements along with numerous bridge upgrades and additional safety measures.

Illinois Transportation Secretary Omer Osman reminded drivers about ongoing construction efforts: "Remember: If you are driving in Illinois this construction season, you will be driving through work zones."

For further updates on these developments or other regional activities within IDOT's District 1 jurisdiction follow their social media channels or subscribe for email alerts from IDOT In Motion.