Prairie State Wire

The reconstruction and modernization of the Jane Byrne and Weber Road interchanges have been recognized with top honors among Midwest states in the America's Transportation Awards. The revitalization of the Byrne interchange has transformed one of the nation's most congested highway freight bottlenecks into a thriving multimodal corridor, benefiting businesses, residences, and local attractions. Meanwhile, the innovative redesign of the Weber Road interchange using a diverging-diamond design has significantly improved mobility to accommodate increased traffic volumes, population growth, and economic expansion.

"We pride ourselves on innovative infrastructure improvements that boost the overall quality of life for our residents," stated Illinois Transportation Secretary Omer Osman. "These awards provide welcome recognition of these efforts and help remind the public that IDOT is constantly employing new and effective ways to modernize our infrastructure and improve access for all."

The Byrne project, one of the largest in state history, enhanced safety and mobility both regionally and locally. With an investment exceeding $800 million, it involved rebuilding multiple bridges over the interchange to include wider sidewalks and bike lanes. Additionally, Peoria Street was transformed into an expansive walkway, and renovations were made to the Chicago Transit Authority's Blue Line station, including adding an elevator for customers with disabilities.

Since its opening in 1990, the surrounding population near Weber Road in Bolingbrook and Romeoville has nearly doubled. To address this increase in traffic volume, a $96 million project focused on immediate operational and safety concerns by widening Weber Road and reconfiguring its interchange with Interstate 55 into a diverging-diamond design.

America's Transportation Awards are sponsored by the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO), AAA, and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. These awards recognize states for critical infrastructure work along with associated economic benefits and improvements in quality of life.

"In addressing the transportation challenges of today and tomorrow, state DOTs demonstrate a strong determination to bring innovative solutions to their communities," said Jim Tymon, AASHTO's executive director. "The America's Transportation Awards serves as a testament to their endeavors. These projects play a vital role in improving safety, enhancing mobility and revitalizing transportation resources for drivers, bicyclists, pedestrians and transit customers alike."