Governor Quinn Announces $14.9 Million Project to Reconstruct Utica Interchange

CHICAGO – September 8, 2010. Governor Pat Quinn today joined Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Secretary Gary Hannig and local officials to announce plans to reconstruct the existing interchange located at I-80 and IL Route 178. The $14.9 million project will help relieve road construction, enhance roadway safety, and create approximately 175 jobs.

“Improving our state’s aging infrastructure is the key to economic recovery, creating jobs and developing long-term investment in Illinois,” said Governor Quinn “This year, we’re improving approximately 2,500 miles of Illinois roads and 330 bridges – laying the foundation for growth now and for years to come.”

The existing intersection was initially constructed in 1961 and has been resurfaced multiple times. The reconstruction project will include a new structure, wider ramps, and longer acceleration and deceleration lanes on and off the interstate. The project, which is approximately 90 percent federally funded, is expected to be completed by Labor Day 2012.

“We are extremely proud to see this project move forward,” said Secretary Hannig. “This project will help stimulate the local economy, alleviate congestion and increase safety within the respective area.”

The project is being funded through a combination of federal, state and local dollars. The interchange already services a major truck stop and terminal, several grain and petroleum terminals, and a seed plant. It will serve a future business park that will include a logistics, warehouse and truck transfer facility.

IDOT is currently leading the state’s largest road construction program in state history through Governor Quinn’s Illinois Jobs Now! capital construction program. In 2010, IDOT is investing almost $5 billion to repair or improve 2,450 miles of roads and 331 bridges, which is creating or retaining an estimated 65,000 jobs.