Prairie State Wire

The Illinois Department of Transportation has announced progress on several infrastructure projects in the Quad City area as part of Governor JB Pritzker's Rebuild Illinois initiative. This program, described as historic and bipartisan, is now in its fifth year and aims to improve safety and mobility while creating jobs across the region. Eight major projects are underway or completed, representing an investment exceeding $66.4 million.

Governor Pritzker stated, "Rebuild Illinois is revitalizing communities and neighborhoods by investing in projects and people in the Quad City region and throughout the state." He emphasized that this initiative is the largest capital program in state history and will enhance transportation systems for future generations.

Six projects are set for completion in 2023, with two more starting in 2025. Key developments include pavement patching and resurfacing on Interstate 280, expected to finish by November; work on Illinois 5 (John Deere Road) due by October; improvements on Illinois 92 scheduled for mid-September completion; finished works over Shaffer Creek and I-88; structural repairs on U.S. 67 (Centennial Bridge); road enhancements on U.S. 150 completed in July; upcoming work on I-80 anticipated for 2025; and road reconstruction planned for Illinois 84 beginning that same year.

State Senator Mike Halpin remarked, "Illinois is getting serious about upgrading roads and bridges here in the Quad Cities," highlighting the potential economic growth these projects could bring. State Representative Gregg Johnson noted that such investments would create jobs from day one while attracting new businesses to the area.

State Representative Ryan Spain added that this infrastructure investment would boost economic development by improving transportation connections across regions along the Mississippi River.

Rebuild Illinois was launched in 2019 with a total investment of $33.2 billion over six years into various modes of transportation statewide. Moline Mayor Sangeetha Rayapati expressed gratitude for improvements made through this program, noting its impact on local residents' needs.

As of Year Four, Rebuild Illinois has facilitated approximately $12.1 billion worth of improvements statewide across highways, bridges, and additional safety measures. For more information about ongoing projects under this initiative, visit IDOT's website or follow their updates on Twitter at @IDOTDistrict2.

Transportation Secretary Omer Osman reminded drivers to exercise caution during construction season: "When you see orange, stay patient, drop the devices and slow down."