Prairie State Wire

The Illinois Department of Transportation has announced the commencement and continuation of several major infrastructure projects in Chicago as part of the fifth year of the Rebuild Illinois initiative. This program, spearheaded by Governor JB Pritzker, aims to enhance safety, mobility, and quality of life while supporting job creation across the region.

Governor Pritzker emphasized the significance of these efforts, stating, "Rebuild Illinois is revitalizing communities and neighborhoods by investing in projects and people in Chicago and throughout the state." He highlighted that this is part of the largest capital program in state history aimed at creating a resilient transportation system for future generations.

The projects include work on Interstate 55's ramp to Chinatown, Western Avenue resurfacing between 87th and 91st streets, Kennedy Expressway bridge rehabilitation from Edens Expressway to Hubbard's Cave, Pulaski Road bridge repairs over the North Branch of the Chicago River, Dan Ryan Expressway resurfacing at Roosevelt Road, Pulaski Road resurfacing from Columbus Avenue to 95th Street, Morgan Street resurfacing from 63rd to 79th streets and 82nd to 87th streets, and Ohio Street bridge repairs at Kingsbury Street. These projects are scheduled for completion by fall 2025.

State Senator Mattie Hunter expressed support for these initiatives: "Illinois is hard at work to revitalize our infrastructure and strengthen our communities." State Representative Kelly Burke added that these investments also focus on job creation: "With each project, we are creating good-paying jobs that will improve quality of life for residents and their families."

State Representative Theresa Mah highlighted how these improvements would benefit tourism: "Chicago has some of the best destinations in the world... The improvements on I-55 help us do just that."

Since its inception in 2019, Rebuild Illinois has allocated $33.2 billion towards upgrading various transportation modes within the state. Achievements so far include improvements on over 5,000 miles of highway and more than 500 bridges. Illinois Transportation Secretary Omer Osman urged caution during construction seasons: "When you see orange, stay patient... slow down."

Further information about ongoing projects can be accessed through IDOT’s online platforms.