Prairie State Wire

Governor JB Pritzker, alongside the Illinois Department of Transportation and local officials, celebrated the near completion of the Bob Michel Bridge rehabilitation in Peoria. The $24.6 million project aims to enhance connectivity for pedestrians and cyclists between East Peoria Levee and Peoria Warehouse districts. This initiative is part of the Rebuild Illinois capital program, which expedited construction into a single season.

"When I first became Governor, it was clear we needed to improve safety and foster economic growth in this region," said Governor JB Pritzker. "Our extraordinary workforce is putting on the finishing touches — the final installation of expansion joints and pavement markings — but this bridge will be fully operational before we ring in the new year."

The bridge carries about 17,000 vehicles daily over the Illinois River. Closed since March for construction, it underwent significant updates including structural repairs and modernized traffic signals. Sidewalks were consolidated into a 14-foot-wide path protected by a concrete barrier for safer pedestrian and cyclist travel.

"Providing multiple safe, reliable mobility options for the public is one of the centerpieces of Rebuild Illinois," stated Illinois Transportation Secretary Omer Osman.

Local leaders expressed their support for the project. Peoria Mayor Rita Ali noted that despite challenges from closure, improvements will benefit traffic flow and business access. East Peoria Mayor John Kahl highlighted infrastructure enhancements that ensure safety and accessibility.

The Bob Michel Bridge project aligns with other regional efforts under Rebuild Illinois. Recent projects include a $10 million rehabilitation of an Illinois 17 bridge in Lacon and ongoing work on McClugage Bridge set to complete in 2025.

Rebuild Illinois represents a $33.2 billion investment over six years into state transportation infrastructure, creating jobs and promoting economic growth across various modes including roads, transit, waterways, railways, aviation, as well as bicycle paths.

State Senator Koehler remarked on community safety being a priority with this modernization effort: "Today we're celebrating not just an infrastructure upgrade but a testament to our collective determination."

House Deputy Minority Leader Ryan Spain emphasized long-term benefits: "With completion... it will help ensure long-term benefits for our communities."

West Central Building & Construction Trades Council Executive Director Clinton Drury appreciated opportunities provided by Rebuild Illinois: "Projects like these provide real opportunities... while also employing seasoned journeymen."