Illinois State Toll Highway Authority Plans Massive Infrastructure Overhaul

The Illinois State Toll Highway Authority has launched a significant $26.5 billion capital initiative named “Driving Connections.” The 15-year program focuses on extensive toll road reconstruction and rehabilitation efforts.

Toll Road Improvements

The plan allocates more than $14.6 billion specifically for toll road reconstruction and rehabilitation. Additionally, around $3.36 billion targets interchange upgrades, while approximately $880 million is intended for road widening.

Contrast this with the previous $15 billion Move Illinois plan, which included building the I-490 toll road on O’Hare’s west side. It also extended Illinois Route 390 to the airport and constructed an interchange at I-57 and the Tri-State.

DePaul University Professor Joseph Schwieterman commented that the project list lacks glamour, but emphasizes crucial needs. “Serious bottlenecks should convince any doubters,” he stated, urging users to experience peak hour congestion themselves.

Funding comes from rate hikes averaging 45 cents per toll for I-Pass customers. Inflation-based toll increases will take place every other year starting in 2029, following board approval.

Key Projects

One major component includes $3.1 billion dedicated to improving the interchange at I-88 and I-355. The plan proposes adding lanes to relieve congestion in the Downers Grove area. Another significant plan involves the Tri-State interchange at Irving Park Road in Schiller Park, currently offering limited access. The Tollway plans to build a full interchange for $132 million.

Executive Director Cassaundra Rouse emphasized the importance of interchange investments: “They are crucial. There’s also a lot of investment in technology to improve safety.”

Reconstructing a 17-mile stretch between I-55 and Army Trail Road on I-355 will cost approximately $2.2 billion.

Financial Concerns

Former Director and State Sen. Bill Morris expressed skepticism, arguing the toll hikes seemed pre-determined. He labeled certain projects as maintenance rather than genuine capital projects.

Several proposed studies include a $240 million investment to alleviate gridlock at the I-294 and I-90 interchange, plus a $34 million study targeting congestion solutions at the I-90/I-290/Route 53 nexus.

O’Hare International Airport Collaboration

The program also emphasizes regional cooperation, including partnerships with the Chicago Department of Aviation (CDA). A joint venture near the forthcoming Route 390 and I-490 interchange with the CDA involves constructing a western access facility for employee accommodation.

CDA Communications Director Kevin Bargnes indicated that further project details would be disclosed later this year.

Sample Projects

• Veterans Memorial Tollway (I-355): Resurfacing between the Spring Creek Toll Plaza and I-55, costing $650 million. Widening between Roosevelt Road and North Avenue in Lombard, budgeted at $197 million.
• Reagan Memorial Tollway (I-88): Various resurfacing and rehabilitation projects, such as between the Aurora Toll Plaza and Washington Street for $391 million, and widening between the Aurora Toll Plaza and Route 59 for $390 million.
• Jane Addams Tollway (I-90): Resurfacing from Elgin Toll Plaza to Kennedy Expressway, costing $664 million and upgrades between Kishwaukee River and Elgin Toll Plaza for $823 million.