Prairie State Wire

The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) has announced a significant construction season in south Cook County, supported by Governor JB Pritzker's Rebuild Illinois capital program. The initiative includes eight major projects with a combined investment of $148 million aimed at improving safety and mobility while sustaining and creating jobs in the region.

Governor Pritzker stated, "Rebuild Illinois is revitalizing communities and neighborhoods by investing in projects and people in south Cook County and throughout the state." He emphasized that the program aims to build a more resilient, accessible, and equitable transportation system for future generations.

Four of the eight projects are scheduled for completion in 2024, with the remaining four expected to finish between 2025 and 2026. Among these projects is the ongoing reconstruction of Wood Street/Ashland Avenue, which includes new curbs, gutters, lighting, traffic signals, ADA-compliant sidewalk ramps, and a storm sewer system. This project began in 2023 and is expected to conclude by late 2026.

Other projects include intersection reconstructions on Cicero Avenue at various locations with modernized traffic signals; traffic signal installation on 183rd Street at Central Avenue; signal modernization on Lincoln Highway at Cicero Avenue; reconstruction on Southwest Highway from 131st to 135th streets; resurfacing on Torrence Avenue from Harding Avenue to 173rd Street; resurfacing on 159th Street from Carol Avenue to Torrence Avenue; and bridge deck replacement on 127th Street over Cal-Sag Channel.

State Senator Bill Cunningham commented on the investments saying they will "improve the safety of our roads and enhance the quality of life in our community through increased accessibility for our residents." State Representative Anthony DeLuca added that Rebuild Illinois supports local jobs while preparing the region for future economic demands. State Representative Debbie Meyers-Martin noted that infrastructure improvements would make lives easier while fostering economic growth.

Rebuild Illinois was passed in 2019 as a six-year program investing $33.2 billion into the state's transportation system. It is noted as not only the largest capital program in state history but also one that encompasses all modes of transportation including roads, bridges, transit systems, waterways, railways, aviation, and bicycle accommodations.

Illinois Transportation Secretary Omer Osman highlighted IDOT's role under Governor Pritzker's leadership: "Under Gov. Pritzker, IDOT continues to deliver projects in south Cook County that strengthen the state's entire multimodal system of transportation."

For more information about Rebuild Illinois projects across the state visit https://idot.click/Rebuild-Illinois.