Governor Quinn Visits Quincy Highway Project, Highlights State's Record Construction Season

QUINCY – September 17, 2010. Governor Pat Quinn today joined Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) Secretary Gary Hannig to highlight a $16.8 million road construction project near Quincy that will boost the regional economy, increase public safety, and create and retain 220 jobs.

“Improving our state’s aging infrastructure is the key to creating jobs and continuing Illinois’ economic recovery,” said Governor Quinn. “We are in the midst of the largest construction season in our state’s history. Together we have put thousands of people to work, improving approximately 4,800 miles of Illinois roads and 566 bridges, giving Illinois’ economy the boost it needs.”

The project will improve Interstate 172 from the interchange with Interstate 72 to 0.3 miles north of Illinois Route 96. The completed project will include a new highway surface, striping, improved aesthetics, guardrail upgrades and geometric improvements.

Construction will also include a new right turn lane, minor repairs to 12 structures and a new eastbound to southbound lane at Illinois Route 57. The nearly 11-mile-long project is expected to be finished in late summer 2011.

“We are proud and excited to see this important project move forward,” said Secretary Hannig. “Under the leadership and direction of Governor Quinn, we have been able to bring roadway improvement projects like this to Illinoisans all summer long.”

IDOT is currently leading Illinois’ largest road construction program in state history through Governor Quinn’s Illinois Jobs Now! capital construction program. From 2009 through the end of this year, the state will have invested approximately $8 billion to repair or rebuild 4,800 miles of roads and 566 bridges. These projects are creating an estimated 155,000 short-term and permanent jobs.