Prairie State Wire

Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) have marked significant progress on the $1.3 billion Interstate 80 corridor project. The initiative is a major component of Governor Pritzker's Rebuild Illinois capital program, with construction set to commence fully in the spring.

"Illinoisans deserve infrastructure built for the modern era, with the highest standards of safety and reliability, and a little less congestion and frustration," stated Governor JB Pritzker. He highlighted that $1.3 billion has been allocated for rebuilding I-80 through Will, Grundy, and Kendall Counties to enhance safety and reduce congestion for both commercial drivers and families.

The I-80 reconstruction aims to replace outdated infrastructure over 50 years old, improve safety, increase capacity, and create new interstate connections. It also promises thousands of jobs while boosting regional economic prospects.

Recently completed was the Houbolt Road interchange in Joliet, redesigned as a diverging-diamond interchange at a cost exceeding $200 million. This project was done in collaboration with CenterPoint Properties, Joliet city officials, and Will County, with the state contributing $32 million.

Other elements nearing completion include upgrades to the Shepley Road and Wheeler Avenue bridges over I-80. These improvements are expected to support enhanced capacity and safety measures along I-80.

On the western side of the corridor, temporary pavement is being added to westbound lanes between Ridge and River roads for upcoming construction seasons. Contracts are being finalized for nearly 12 miles of improvements between Ridge Road and Center Street and from Rowell Avenue to U.S. 30.

Omer Osman, Illinois Transportation Secretary, noted: "Since Day 1, IDOT under Gov. Pritzker has made fixing I-80 a priority."

The full project covers 16 miles from Ridge Road in Minooka to U.S. 30 in Joliet and New Lenox. It includes rebuilding interchanges at various points such as Interstate 55 and adding a new flyover ramp for improved traffic flow.

Additionally, enhancements will be made for pedestrians and cyclists with projects like a new path along Chicago Street in Joliet.

Jennifer Bertino-Tarrant, County Executive of Will County remarked: "This project will prove to be one of the most impactful infrastructure projects for Will County in decades."

Shorewood Mayor Clarence ‘CC' DeBold added: "This creates safer roads and improved transit throughout the region."

Joliet Mayor Terry D'Arcy commended Governor Pritzker's leadership on this initiative.

Rebuild Illinois is investing $33.2 billion over six years into improving transportation infrastructure across various modes including roads, bridges, railways, aviation facilities, and pedestrian paths.

For more information about the project visit I80will.org.