Prairie State Wire

Governor JB Pritzker, alongside the Illinois Department of Transportation and local officials, marked significant progress on the $251.8 million reconstruction of the Interstate 57/74 interchange in Champaign-Urbana. This project is a key component of the Rebuild Illinois capital program, aimed at enhancing safety and mobility while fostering economic growth in the region.

"This $251.8 million, multi-year project to redesign the I-57/74 Interchange is a cornerstone of our road modernization program," stated Governor Pritzker. He emphasized that smart investments in infrastructure pave the way for a better future for families and businesses.

Lt. Governor Juliana Stratton remarked on the importance of safe roads and dependable infrastructure, attributing these improvements to the Rebuild Illinois capital program.

The project involves replacing an outdated cloverleaf interchange with a new design featuring two flyover ramps to improve traffic flow: eastbound I-74 to northbound I-57 and westbound I-74 to southbound I-57. An additional lane will be added to both directions of I-74 between Prospect Avenue and Duncan Road.

Illinois Transportation Secretary Omer Osman highlighted that this project strengthens transportation systems across the state while creating opportunities for communities.

State Senator Chapin Rose expressed satisfaction with upgrading what he described as an "extremely dangerous interchange" to modern standards. State Senator Faraci noted benefits such as improved safety, economic gains, and job creation for skilled workers.

State Representative Carol Ammons mentioned enhancements like green spaces, LED lighting, and improved travel times as part of this infrastructure initiative.

Mayor Deborah Frank Feinen pointed out that this investment also supports workforce development by training future workers in trades offering sustainable wages.

Mayor Diane Marlin emphasized that Rebuild Illinois is transforming critical infrastructure statewide while providing career training opportunities through Parkland College.

Kevin Sage from East Central Building Trades underscored how modernized infrastructure connects communities while generating jobs.

The interchange serves nearly 40,000 vehicles daily, including commercial trucks transporting freight. The project's completion by late 2025 aims to eliminate existing traffic issues such as merging conflicts and slow speeds.

Rebuild Illinois has facilitated numerous projects on I-57, with investments totaling $33.2 billion over six years across various transportation modes statewide. These efforts have resulted in substantial improvements covering thousands of miles of highway and hundreds of bridges since its inception four years ago.

For more information about ongoing projects under Rebuild Illinois, visit their website at https://idot.click/Rebuild-Illinois.