Illinois FIRST to Improve Access to Transit in Northlake and Prospect Heights

SPRINGFIELD -- Governor George H. Ryan today awarded $1.4 million in Illinois FIRST funds for projects to improve access to public transportation in Northlake and Prospect Heights.

"These projects are essential to enhance the safety and convenience of transit riders and are part of an ongoing effort to make public transportation a more attractive option for suburban commuters," Ryan said. "Illinois FIRST had made it possible for the state to participate and help make communities less congested and more livable."

The state funding includes $1.2 million to the city of Northlake for construction of sidewalks on Lake Street (U.S. 20), from Wolf Road to 25th Avenue, and along North Avenue (U.S. 64), from Wolf Road to Northwest Avenue. The sidewalks will provide safer and more convenient access to Pace bus stops.

Prospect Heights received $185,000 for construction of a new commuter rail station on the Metra North Central line. The new station will allow Chicago-bound commuters to board the commuter train without having to cross the tracks. The new station will also be located adjacent to the commuter parking lot.

The Illinois FIRST funds are allocated under Operation Green Light, a program that targets state funds to projects that reduce congestion in urban areas. The sidewalks in Northlake are funded exclusively with Operation Green Light dollars.

Funding for the commuter rail station also includes $370,000 coming from federal highway funds, including dollars set aside for congestion relief projects under the federal Congestion Management and Air Quality program.