Quinn Unveils Road Improvement Initiative

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Governor Quinn's new $11.5 Billion multi-year construction program is a continued infrastructure investment that will create 155,000 Jobs. (Photo Credit: Chris Eaves)
Governor Quinn's new $11.5 Billion multi-year construction program is a continued infrastructure investment that will create 155,000 Jobs. (Photo Credit: Chris Eaves)

by Thelma Sardin

Last week, Governor Quinn introduced a new $11.5 billion multi-year construction program. The initiative is expected to jumpstart economic development in the state by creating 155,000 jobs while enhancing safety and reducing congestion on Illinois roadways.

The program is steered by the Illinois Jobs Now! capital program and is a multi-year plan for fiscal years 2012 through 2017. According to a recent press release, the venture will improve 3,248 miles of road and replace or rehabilitate 611 bridges. In the upcoming fiscal year, the state is expected to improve 490 miles of road and 105 bridges.

The Associated Press reported that program funding will include sponsoring the design work for the Illiana Expressway from Interstate 55 in Will County to Interstate 65 in Indiana.

The last two construction seasons have been the busiest in Illinois history, thanks to Illinois Jobs Now!, said Governor Quinn. This plan will ensure that we continue this momentum in 2012 and beyond, that exemplifies my commitment to creating jobs and supporting our economic recovery through critical investment in our roads and bridges.

The program will be funded with federal, state and local funds. Here is the breakdown of funding sources: Of the $11.5 billion program, $7.2 billion is from federal funds and $3.6 billion from state funds, including $2 billion through the six-year, $31 billion Illinois Jobs Now! capital program passed by Governor Quinn and the Illinois General Assembly in 2009.

Throughout the initiatives duration, state highways will receive $8.3 billion in updates which will include reconstructions, resurfacings, widening and other safety projects.

We are excited to move forward with these projects that will create jobs and make our roads safer, Illinois Transportation Secretary Gary Hannig said. We believe they will spark economic development and enhance the quality of life for residents across the state.

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