In The News

Illiana Expressway moves ahead

The governors of Illinois and Indiana met Wednesday, June 9, to get moving on the long-sought Illiana Expressway, connecting Interstate 55 to Interstate 65.

Illinois Gov. Pat Quinn and Indiana Gov. Mitch Daniels signed a memorandum of understanding outlining a mutual commitment to the project. Both men have touted the thousands of jobs that will be created and the benefit to regional commerce.

“In Indiana, we believe great infrastructure means more jobs. We’re in the middle of the biggest road building boom in Indiana history, and the Illiana project is its next natural extension,” Daniels told media gathered for the event.

The Illiana Expressway is expected to allow travelers to avoid going into Chicago. Travelers could bypass the city by connecting I-55 near Joliet, IL, with I-65 in northwest Indiana. Another option on the table is to link I-65 with I-57 in Illinois.

“The new expressway will open an era of bi-state collaboration and provide a crucial economic boost for both states,” Quinn said in a statement.

Quinn also signed into law a bill – SB3659 – permitting the state to partner with private groups to develop, build and manage the proposed 53-mile expressway. Daniels already approved similar legislation this year, which authorizes a private group to build and operate the proposed $1 billion roadway in exchange for toll revenue.

The two states will begin their joint effort by years’ end. They will initiate a federally required environmental impact study. The study will seek participation from all stakeholders to define the transportation needs and evaluate alternatives.

Quinn said the benefit of the project is obvious. “The importance of transportation for all of us in this country is indisputable,” Quinn said.

While the two governors gushed over the benefits of the roadway, critics of the plan continue to have concerns about the many unknowns that remain, such as the exact path of the Illiana project. Others say they would prefer the state take care of existing roadways before pursuing alternatives.

To view other legislative activities of interest for Illinois, click here. For Indiana, click here.

Editor’s Note: Please share your thoughts with us about the legislation included in this story. Comments may be sent to [email protected] .

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