The Illinois Tollway’s Department of Diversity and Strategic Development demonstrated what true leadership in diversity and inclusion looks like at the prestigious American Contract Compliance Association Annual Training Institute.  Chief of Diversity Marlene Vick and General Manager of Diversity Kristen Bennett provided insights on how Illinois Tollway diversity programs and initiatives are transforming economic access for small, diverse, women- and veteran-owned businesses throughout...

The International Bridge, Tunnel, and Turnpike Association (IBTTA), the global association for toll facility owners, operators, and supporting businesses, proudly announces the winners of the 2024 Toll Excellence Awards and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Awards. These honors celebrate innovation and the advancement of best practices within the tolling and user-based transportation financing sector. By recognizing the industry’s most creative and impactful projects,  IBTTA...

The Illinois Tollway reminds drivers traveling over the Labor Day holiday weekend that roadside assistance is a cell phone call away by dialing *999 if they experience mechanical problems or are involved in a roadway incident, and also urges travelers to stay in their vehicles until help from Tollway maintenance crews arrives.   The Illinois Tollway expects 7.8 million vehicles to travel on its system over the five-day Labor Day holiday weekend between Friday, August 30, and Tuesday,...

The Illinois Tollway is creating new opportunities for small businesses to work on Tollway projects through its Job Order Contracting (JOC) Program – work related to electrical, flooring, HVAC, masonry, plumbing, roofing and other general construction projects at Tollway facilities throughout Northern Illinois.    “The new Small Business Initiative JOC for General Construction opens doors for more small companies to gain valuable experience working on Tollway projects,” said...

A who’s who of transportation and tolling industry experts and professionals – individuals and organizations – came together in Maryland this month to further the common goal of working to move the needle on new solutions for improving roadside and back-office financial systems.Tollway Executive Director Cassaundra Rouse and staff participated in the International Bridge, Tunnel and Turnpike Association’s Finance and Road Usage Charging Summit and focused squarely on the important issues and...

Illinois Tollway Executive Director Cassaundra Rouse joined the engineering project team for the Mile Long Bridge Project in accepting a National Recognition Award from the American Council of Engineering Companies at the annual ACEC Engineering Excellence Awards Gala earlier this month in Washington, D.C. The Mile Long Bridge Project was submitted by Bowman Consulting Group Ltd., which served as the construction manager, along with the design team of H.W. Lochner Inc., HDR Engineering...

Rows of shiny, steel beams rising over the central Tri-State Tollway (I-294) just south of O’Hare International Airport mark the latest phase of a massive Illinois Tollway project to build a new toll road that will provide western access for the airport.The beams bridging the tollway as it passes through Franklin Park will carry a flyover ramp being built as part of the new I-490/I-294 Interchange that will connect the Tri-State Tollway (I-294) with the southern leg of the new I-490...

With drones becoming increasingly popular tools on construction projects, the Illinois Tollway partnered with software and equipment manufacturers to conduct a drone training workshop as part of the Tollway’s Emerging Technology initiative.  Approximately 70 representatives from small contractors and consultants turned out to learn about FAA regulations, Tollway specifications and contract provisions including allowances for purchasing drone equipment and software on select Small...

In celebration of Earth Day, the Illinois Tollway recognizes the critical role sustainability plays in every aspect of our day-to-day operations. As part of our commitment to being a leader in sustainability, the Tollway performs and promotes a wide range of eco-friendly activities, including planting tens of thousands of trees across our system, restoring and improving hundreds of acres of wetlands and prairies, applying best management practices to reduce pollutants from stormwater runoff,...

Illinois Tollway public safety telecommunicators are often called the “first” first responders. They’re the ones who answer 911 calls for emergency assistance, making them a critical first point of contact when anyone is in urgent need on the Illinois Tollway. “We are grateful to our outstanding team of public safety telecommunicators, who are vital to the Tollway’s mission to provide safe, efficient travel for customers,” said Illinois Tollway Executive Director Cassaundra Rouse....

Illinois Tollway Executive Director Cassaundra Rouse today announced the creation of a Stakeholder Advisory Team responsible for advising and providing recommendations to the agency as it develops the next capital plan and provide a framework to advance its long-term capital priorities. The next capital plan will build off the successes of the ongoing Move Illinois Capital Program and continue investments in the region.The SAT is comprised of leaders representing non-profit, civic, business,...

The Illinois Tollway’s Alsip M-1 maintenance site staff recently opened their doors to students from Olive-Harvey College to introduce them to career opportunities offered by the Tollway and the transportation industry. Students enrolled in the Automotive Technology Program at the South Side college along with faculty members toured the Tollway’s state-of-the-art roadway maintenance site to better understand the work done by the mechanics, equipment-operator/laborers and other staffers...

The Mile Long Bridge Project on the Central Tri-State Tollway (I-294) has been voted the best transportation infrastructure project in Illinois through online voting for the Engineering Works Award by the state engineering community and general public.  It’s is one of several honors Illinois Tollway projects and its engineering teams received at the American Council of Engineering Companies of Illinois’s annual Engineering Excellence Awards Gala in Rosemont.  “The Mile...

Work is has started and will continue through March for the installation of 14 over-the-road SmartRoad gantries as part of the Central Tri-State (I-294) Project. The Illinois Tollway is installing the new SmartRoad gantries as part of active traffic management technology that will make travel more efficient for Tollway customers. Each of the new SmartRoad gantries installed will be equipped with electronic signage and message boards that will be operational upon completion of the...

His company typically focuses on project management services, but Ezekiel Garnett said he and other company leaders have been looking for opportunities to expand their business into new, rapidly growing technologies.That’s why he signed up for a new class offered by the Illinois Tollway as part of its Emerging Technology Program that provided hands-on training in installing and servicing closed-circuit TV and video surveillance systems.The recent two-and-a-half-day training program for local...

The Illinois Tollway is transitioning to a more efficient and cost-effective transponder technology – I-PASS Sticker Tags.  “I-PASS Sticker Tags mark the latest advance in toll collection,” said Illinois Tollway Executive Director Cassaundra Rouse. “Sticker tags are being adopted by toll agencies across the country and by the Illinois Tollway as they provide a convenient and reliable and travel experience for our customers.”I-PASS Sticker Tags can be picked up at Illinois Tollway...

The Illinois Tollway congratulates Executive Director Cassaundra Rouse for being elected to the Board of Directors for the International Bridge, Tunnel and Turnpike Association (IBTTA).The IBTTA Board of Directors is the chief governing body of the worldwide association for owners and operators of toll facilities and businesses that serve the tolling industry. As a director, Rouse will help set the strategic direction for IBTTA and advocate for innovation in tolling to improve mobility...

The Illinois Tollway is prepared for this holiday season and working to help customers take some of the stress out of holiday travel the Christmas and New Year’s holidays through I-PASS benefits and roadway customer service efforts.The heaviest traffic is expected on Wednesday, December 20, Thursday, December 21, and Friday, December 22, when nearly 1.7 million vehicles each day are projected to travel on the 294-mile Tollway system. About 1.1 million vehicles are expected to travel on...

Illinois Tollway mechanic Bob Cowgill was only looking to have some fun and possibly win a few dollars when he went out in October to play Bingo. Instead, Cowgill ended up saving a man’s life when he was abruptly confronted by a medical emergency while playing in his weekly Bingo match at a community center in Orland Park. “I looked up, saw one of the workers come through the doorway in obvious distress,” recalled Cowgill, 59, who works at the Alsip (M-1) maintenance site. “When you...

2023 National Roadway Safety Awards recognize innovations to protect pedestrians, cyclists and motorists as pandemic spike in U.S. road fatalities continues largely unabatedThe Illinois Tollway was honored with a 2023 National Roadway Safety Award today for creating the TIMS2GO Mobile Incident Response Tool, a mobile web application that provides its traffic managers with instant access to livestream video, incident details and status updates of roadway incidents on smartphones, tablets and...

The Illinois Tollway has introduced a balanced Tentative 2024 Budget with $1.64 billion of revenue that includes $451.3 million for annual maintenance and operations on the 294-mile system and provides funds to support $1.4 billion in capital spending, including funding for the 13th year of the agency’s 15-year Move Illinois capital program.“Our Tentative 2024 Budget outlines a balanced spending plan demonstrating the Illinois Tollway’s commitment to serving our customers, communities and...

The Illinois Tollway is building four unusual bridges along the western edge of O’Hare International Airport that won’t carry cars, trucks or even pedestrians. As part of its work to build the new I-490 Tollway, the Tollway is constructing the bridges to support the specialized approach lights used to help guide commercial jets to safe landings on O’Hare Airport runways. The new I-490 Tollway will run near the edge of O’Hare Airport and its planned path will take it directly through...

One of the priorities for the Illinois Tollway is building the pipeline of a qualified and talented workforce, encouraging students to consider future options in the trades and engineering.The Illinois Tollway hosted about 120 students from area high schools September 26 for a boots-on-the-ground experience at some of our major construction work at the I-490 Tollway Project, and, for the first time, at our roadway maintenance sites in Alsip and Bensenville. “Giving students access to...

Helping parents keep their children safe every trip, every time, the Illinois Tollway and Illinois State Police Troop 15 are hosting a free Kids’ Identification and Safety Seat (K.I.S.S.) event on Saturday, September 30,  in partnership with the Tinley Park Police Department in Tinley Park.“K.I.S.S. events are a quick, easy and fun way for parents to protect their children by having safety seats inspected to ensure they are properly installed and by picking up free ID cards for their...

Helping parents keep their children safe every trip, every time, the Illinois Tollway and Illinois State Police Troop 15 are hosting a free Kids’ Identification and Safety Seat (K.I.S.S.) event on Saturday, September 23, at Lambs Farm in Libertyville. The event coincides with National Seat Check Saturday, part of a National Highway Traffic Safety Administration effort to educate parents and caregivers to ensure their children are secured in the correct car seat for the child’s age,...

Imagine I-PASS as an “all-access” pass on your travels on any toll road, tunnel or bridge from coast to coast. It may take several more years to make it a reality, but the tolling industry continues working toward national tolling interoperability, making all toll systems compatible with one another. “Nationwide interoperability will provide I-PASS customers a seamless network for fast, safe and convenient travel wherever they go,” said Illinois Tollway Chief of Business Systems...

The Illinois State Black Chamber of Commerce calls its annual convention each August “a treasure trove of connections waiting to be explored” and the Illinois Tollway went all-out to tap into that wealth of connections.  “The Illinois State Black Chamber of Commerce convention is an ideal place for the Illinois Tollway to find talented entrepreneurs and innovative businesses provide valuable goods and services,” said Illinois Tollway Executive Director Cassaundra Rouse. “We offer...

Additional 24-hour road patrols bolster H.E.L.P. trucks and State Police Troop 15The Illinois Tollway is launching around-the-clock Hot Weather Patrols to more quickly locate and assist customers stranded along its roads during the dangerously high temperatures and humidity expected to continue through Thursday.The Illinois Tollway typically operates special Hot Weather Patrols whenever temperatures or heat indexes indicate conditions could be hazardous for stranded drivers. The 24-hour...

The Illinois Tollway congratulates Illinois State Police Troop 15 for bringing home top honors in the annual Illinois Traffic Safety Challenge.  Troop 15, the troop that patrols the Illinois Tollway system, was awarded first place in the 2022/2023 challenge.  It was recognized for its approach and effectiveness in carrying out its highway safety programs, which are based on policies and procedures related to the vigorous enforcement of speed, occupant restraint, impaired...

Helping parents keep their children safe every trip, every time, the Illinois Tollway and Illinois State Police Troop 15 are hosting a free Kids’ Identification and Safety Seat (K.I.S.S.) event on Saturday, July 8, at the Prisco Community Center in Aurora. “K.I.S.S. events are a quick, easy and fun way for parents to protect their children by having safety seats inspected to ensure they are properly installed and by picking up free ID cards for their youngsters,” said Illinois Tollway...

As executive director of the Illinois Tollway, Cassaundra Rouse serves as an inspiration and valuable resource to other women in the transportation industry.  With that in mind, the WTS Greater Chicago Chapter invited Rouse to serve as a member of its advisory board to help raise awareness of the organization’s mission to attract, sustain, connect and advance women’s careers to strengthen the transportation industry.  Members of WTS Greater Chicago Chapter represent...

Illinois Tollway roadway electrician Jon Cveticanin spends a lot of his free time walking through suburban cemeteries searching for the graves of military veterans. When he finds those graves, he doesn’t pay his respects to the fallen veterans with flowers, but with a weed whip and other lawn tools he uses to remove the overgrown grass and weeds that often obscure their headstones. He and his family, who have a history of military service, view their work as a way to honor the...

In 2009, after a decade of working as a civil engineer, Mae Whiteside Williams decided to bet on herself and launch her own engineering firm out of her home in Chicago’s Roseland Heights neighborhood. “Some people will say ‘well, that’s ludicrous,’ but I just thought I could do it and believed in myself,” Whiteside Williams said, recalling how she started the business with $700 and a laptop computer. Since then, CKL Engineers has grown into a successful small business with 28...

What’s the best way for high school students to find out if a career in the transportation industry is for them?  Put on hard hats and safety vests to get a close-up look at construction projects underway on the Illinois Tollway.“Giving students access to real-world construction projects taking place right in their back yards is the best way to inspire their ambitions and allow them to see opportunities for potential careers,” said Illinois Tollway Executive Director Cassaundra Rouse....

Reminding drivers that they play a critical role in maintaining safe work zones, the Illinois Tollway is joining other safety and transportation agencies, industry partners and construction workers to mark National Work Zone Awareness Week  With roadway construction occurring across Illinois, including nearly $1.5 billion the Tollway plans to invest in reconstructing and expanding its 294-mile system, drivers need to slow down, put away electronic devices and remember that “You play...

When Jennifer Kelecius and a business partner launched Foundation Mechanics in 2011, they mostly did consulting work for another company, then began doing a variety of smaller construction and landscaping projects.The firm continued with only a handful of employees until 2016 when Kelecius won an Illinois Tollway contract under a small business set-aside program to serve as the prime contractor on a $1.4 million project to make landscaping improvements along a 30-mile stretch of the Jane...

Illinois Tollway finances are in the hands of a woman recognized as one of the best in the business. Crain’s Chicago Business named Tollway Chief Financial Officer Cathy Williams among its “2023 Notable CFOs” for her accomplishments at the agency, leadership in the finance industry and active role in her community. “Congratulations to Cathy Williams for being recognized by Crain’s for her impressive, dedicated work as our chief financial officer,” said Illinois Tollway Executive...

Last-chance discounts now offered on outstanding invoices alongside fee dismissal for income-eligible customers enrolled in I-PASS Assist.After an overwhelmingly successful amnesty program, a broad expansion of the I-PASS Assist program and completion of complex technological changes required to restructure the Illinois Tollway’s violation enforcement program, the Illinois Tollway reminds customers that unpaid tolls may result in the issuance of violation notices. “It is important to...

A quick, money-saving way for drivers to pay their tolls and avoid any fees or fines now is as close as their smartphone. It’s the Official Illinois Tollway App, which lets drivers use their phones or mobile devices to easily update or manage their I-PASS accounts, including adding or purchasing transponders, adding or changing payment methods and managing rental vehicle or new vehicles.Drivers who don’t have I-PASS can use the app to create a Pay By Plate account that automatically pays...

There are more career opportunities available in the transportation industry than just engineers, planners and traffic managers. There are also opportunities in traditional office professions such as IT, HR and finance, as well as in warehouse positions and the skilled trades. That’s why the Illinois Tollway is offering college students and recent graduates summer internships in a variety of departments, as well as full-year internships in engineering and business systems. Eligible...

They continuously patrolled 37 miles of roadway, assisting drivers and clearing crash scenes, operated snowplows and other heavy equipment and staffed shifts around the clock—all without sustaining a single on-the-job injury in 2022. The Illinois Tollway is honoring the roadway workers at the DeKalb M-11 maintenance site for their outstanding safety record last year. The DeKalb maintenance site on the Reagan Memorial Tollway (I-88) was the only one among the Tollway’s 12 maintenance...

More income-eligible drivers are receiving the cost-saving benefits of I-PASS after signing up for I-PASS Assist Accounts that also offer few up-front costs.The number of active I-PASS Assist accounts has more than quadrupled to more than 12,200, as a result of ongoing Illinois Tollway outreach efforts since enhancing the program in 2022.  Working through a partnership with the Illinois Department of Revenue, the Tollway is able to verify the eligibility of households for I-PASS...

The Forest Preserve District of Will County presented its 2022 “Appreciation for Partners” award to the Illinois Tollway at its Board of Commissioners meeting on February 9 in Joliet. Each year, the Forest Preserve District selects its award honoree from dozens of organizations that support its mission to protect and enhance Will County’s natural and cultural resources for the benefit of current and future generations. This year, the Illinois Tollway was selected for its...

When he decided to pursue Illinois Tollway contracts in hopes of expanding his two-person engineering firm, Charles Frangos thought it would help to get some guidance from a more established business already familiar with Tollway procedures and projects.  So in 2016, Frangos—a professional engineer and U.S. Navy veteran--enrolled his year-old firm, Orion Engineers, in the Tollway’s Partnering for Growth Program, which pairs small, diverse and veteran-owned businesses working as...

The WTS Greater Chicago Chapter hosted a networking event recognizing the Illinois Tollway including Executive Director Cassaundra Rouse in her new leadership position. The event provided an opportunity for Tollway leadership to connect with about 100 members of WTS Greater Chicago, which promotes the development and advancement of women transportation professionals in the public and private sectors and students pursuing careers in the transportation industry. Pictured: Cassaundra Rouse...

The Illinois Tollway is kicking off the New Year with a new look for its Highway Emergency Lane Patrol (H.E.L.P.) trucks. The new look introduces GEICO as the new, exclusive sponsor of the Tollway’s roadway assistance program for customers in need.   “The Illinois Tollway is pleased to launch this partnership with GEICO that supports our vital roadside assistance service for customers on our roadways,” said Illinois Tollway Executive Director Cassaundra Rouse. “Safety is always...

Since launching its Partnering for Growth program to help small, diverse and veteran-owned firms gain experience working on Illinois Tollway projects, the agency has seen a surge in those businesses participating in its construction and engineering work. Tollway officials recently outlined the benefits and successes of the innovative program to other interested public agencies and construction industry groups at the Government Procurement Forum, which is affiliated with the City of...

The Construction Industry Service Corporation (CISCO) named the Tri-State Tollway (I-294)/I-57 Interchange Project its Project of the Year award winner in the infrastructure category.  CISCO’s annual Pride in Construction Award Program recognizes top-quality union construction projects, with entries judged on the project’s positive impact on the community, safety record, quality of construction and design.  “The Illinois Tollway takes great pride in the completion of the...

Greater emphasis on advancing equity is increasingly playing a role in the future of transportation infrastructure in Northern Illinois.  “The Illinois Tollway is delivering our Move Illinois capital program with diversity, equity and inclusion in mind while working to ensure that the work and improvements made have minimal impact on the environment,” Tollway Board Chair Dorothy Abreu told nearly 200 members of the Illinois Hispanic Chamber of Commerce at a breakfast meeting in...

There is often no shortage of free financial advice available to entrepreneurs from relatives and friends. But you often get what you pay for. “Don’t take any wooden nickels.”“The best way to make a small fortune is to start with a large one.” “One word… plastics.” The Illinois Tollway, recognizing the challenges that small and diverse construction and professional engineering services firms face in getting solid financial advice, recently hosted its first “Building the Road to...

A lot has changed since the last time the Illinois Tollway hosted an in-person Move Illinois Quarterly meeting in September 2019. Major projects have been completed, including the Mile Long Bridge and Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railway Bridge projects on the Central Tri-State Tollway (I-294), as well as the Tri-State Tollway (I-294)/I-57 Interchange Project. Two new maintenance facilities were built. Tolling reforms were instituted. Pay by Plate rolled out. I-PASS Assist expanded....

The Illinois Tollway, entering the 12th year of its 15-year, $14 billion Move Illinois capital program, continues to make strategic investments in its transportation infrastructure. Foremost among these investments in 2023 is continuing work to rebuild and widen the Central Tri-State Tollway (I-294) from 95th Street to Balmoral Avenue and to build the new I-490 Tollway along the west side of O’Hare International Airport. At the same time, the Tollway continues working to ensure that...

The regional transportation network in Northern Illinois is continuously growing, improving and evolving to meet the current and future needs of the traveling public. So, having leadership from the Illinois Tollway and other major transportation agencies gathered together in one place is a great opportunity for transportation industry professionals to learn about what’s coming up and gain perspective on how all the upcoming improvements fit together. “We will continue to look to...

Registration now open with presentations and resources from leading financial institutions on financial best practices, access to capital, and small business growth strategies The Illinois Tollway is hosting a Building the Road to Success: Financial Planning for Small Businesses event in Chicago this week to share advice and resources to support small diverse and minority-owned companies with financial management and capital development necessary to succeed in the heavy highway...

The *999 motorist assistance program plays an important role in keeping Illinois motorists safe and traffic moving efficiently. As of October 1, the responsibility for fielding *999 calls is with The Chicago Lighthouse, a social service organization that assists those who are visually impaired, disabled or military veterans.“The *999 service is vital to quickly identifying and responding to roadway incidents with the appropriate resources and we are pleased to have The Chicago Lighthouse...

Illinois Tollway telecommunicators are used to handling emergencies and sending help—they answer 911 calls and other requests for assistance from drivers using the Tollway system. But staffers at the Tollway dispatch center recently responded to an emergency situation far from the Tollway system, assisting a 911 center in a Florida county slammed in September by Hurricane Ian. They couldn’t dispatch H.E.L.P. trucks or police assistance, but Tollway telecommunications staffers dipped...

An 83-foot-long portable steel safety barrier used by the Illinois Tollway to shield roadway and emergency workers from fast-moving traffic is catching the eye of drivers—and of transportation officials in other states.The sheer size and visibility of the bright yellow barrier, which includes a rear electronic message board to alert drivers to road repairs or traffic incidents, encourages drivers to slow down and steer clear of it as they approach, Tollway officials said.Transportation...

The Illinois Tollway’s Toll Operations team is always looking for ways to liven up the workplace, but recently their team used their casual, themed Fridays to call out a cause near to many - October’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month.“Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, our team has done a great job coming in to the office to serve our customers,” said Chief of Toll Operations Pat Taylor. “So, dress-up Fridays is a great way to build a greater sense of camaraderie and make coming into work more...

The Illinois Tollway may need a bigger trophy case just for TIMS2GO.   The TIMS2GO mobile incident response tool was recognized by Government Technology magazine as one of its 10 top award winners in the operations category for its National Innovation Showcase. The operations category focuses on public agencies that use innovative technologies to improve internal operations. Recognition for TIMS2GO by Government Technology is part of the online publication’s annual Special...

The final Kids Identification and Safety Seat (K.I.S.S.) event of the year drew parents and their children to Itasca in September, wrapping up the Operation Kid 2022 safety program hosted by the Illinois Tollway and Illinois State Police.But the Tollway and Illinois State Police already are looking to expand the popular K.I.S.S. safety program in 2023, which resumed this year following a two-year pause forced by the COVID-19 pandemic.“We’re thrilled we could resume this program this year and...

The Illinois Tollway is preparing to open the new southbound Mile Long Bridge to traffic next week, completing the second phase of the $500 million construction project to deliver the new twin-structure bridge as part of the Central Tri-State Tollway (I-294) Project.  “The reopening of the Mile Long Bridge is a testament to the hard work of the people who made the timely completion of this project a reality,” said Governor JB Pritzker.  “Replacing outdated bridges throughout...

The Illinois Tollway welcomed an invitation from the American Contract Compliance Association (ACCA) to showcase its Partnering For Growth Program at this year’s National Training Institute in North Carolina.  ACCA is committed to empowering professionals in their fields of expertise and ensuring equitable employment and contracting practices within the public and private sectors.  During the 2022 American Contract Compliance Association National Training Institute,...

It’s been said that engineering is the art and science of nuts and bolts.   So, it was with great interest that a group from the American Society of Civil Engineers, Illinois Section, welcomed Illinois Tollway Interim Executive Director Lanyea Griffin to dig into some of the unique engineering aspects of ongoing Tollway projects.   More than 120 transportation engineers flocked to the luncheon hosted by the ASCE Illinois Transportation and Development Institute, a...

The Society of American Military Engineers, Lake Michigan Post, brought together a broad range of government agency officials to discuss the impact of the federal stimulus on the regional transportation network and the highway construction industry. About 75 military and civilian engineering and construction industry professionals attended the 15th annual SAME LMP Industry Day event recently in Lake Forest to hear from officials from federal, state and local agencies. The lineup for...

A better understanding of the various types of certifications accepted for different types of Tollway contracts – construction, professional engineering services and goods and services – can be a game-changer for small and diverse firms, opening up contract opportunities that they may not have known they could pursue. Tollway Chief of the Department of Diversity and Strategic Development Terry Miller, Chief of Contract Compliance Angela Arrington-Jones and Deputy Chief of Contract...

Nearly 300 transportation industry professionals took the opportunity to meet with the Illinois Tollway’s new leadership duo recently to hear about the Tollway’s priorities and coming projects.Illinois Tollway Chairwoman Dorothy Abreu and Interim Executive Director Lanyea Griffin met for the first time with members of the Illinois Road and Transportation Builders Association at the IRTBA General Membership Meeting in Lombard. Abreu and Griffin shared their vision for the Tollway,...

Sprawling construction along the Central Tri-State Tollway (I-294) and on the new I-490 Tollway is drawing the attention of drivers and media outlets.It’s hard to miss—towering cranes and massive backhoes are common sights for drivers as the Illinois Tollway invests nearly $1.5 billion in 2022 to improve and expand its system, with much of that work occurring along I-294, where the agency is widening and reconstructing 22 miles of roadway between Rosemont and Oak Lawn.More work is underway to...

Looking for ways to contribute or engage in this year’s Earth Day?  Here are some ideas from across the region.  Also, take a moment to read about the Tollway’s fulfillment of our commitment to plant 58,000 trees as a part of our Move Illinois landscape master plan, as well as our significant investments in the region’s wetlands.  Find an event a get engaged!  ChicagoRotary Earth Day Cleanup at Grant Park in Chicago - Chicago ParentThe Insect Asylum- Earth Day Celebration...

In partnership with Inner-City Underwriting Agency Inc. and the Illinois Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, the Illinois Tollway is relaunching its Technical Assistance Program to help small, diverse and veteran-owned firms learn how to succeed in doing business with the Tollway.The Tollway will host a series of events for local businesses and community leaders to network with representatives from the Technical Assistance providers and the Tollway at several locations throughout the Chicago area...

Another historic year of construction means extra attention required at all times. With construction season ramping up across the state, the Illinois Department of Transportation, Illinois State Police, Illinois Tollway, industry partners and frontline construction workers joined forces today for National Work Zone Awareness Week. During another historic year of construction in Illinois, the public is urged to put down the devices, keep their eyes on the road at all times and remember...

The Illinois Tollway has been at the forefront of developing Building Information Modeling – or BIM – and the use of digital files for deliverables in design and construction. BIM enables engineers to create 3-D models of projects and then integrate the digital files through planning, design, construction and asset management processes. Benefits from using the digital files include not only time and cost savings, but also increased accuracy during to deliver better construction...

The Illinois Tollway is doing its part to advance the state’s reputation as the nation’s most important transportation hub. At the annual Illinois Transportation and Highway Engineering Conference in Champaign, Tollway staff highlighted continued investments in strengthening a multimodal transportation network in Northern Illinois and the use of technology and innovation to deliver improvements. The conference, hosted by the Civil and Environmental Engineering Department at the...

Drivers reminded to reduce speed and move over for vehicles stopped along the road.  The Illinois Tollway is deploying its full fleet of 196 snowplows in response to freezing rain, sleet and snow expected to move into the area early Thursday, possibly creating changing pavement conditions and scattered icy patches that could affect drivers during their morning and evening commutes. The Tollway’s Snow Operations Center is open to manage the agency’s systemwide response.“Our crews...

For gift giving, out-of-town visitors or rental cars – I-PASS has it covered.The Illinois Tollway is working to help customers take some of the stress out of holiday travel over the upcoming Christmas and New Year’s weekends.“The Illinois Tollway wishes a safe and happy holiday season to all of our customers,” said Illinois Tollway Executive Director José Alvarez. “From us to you, we’ll continue working to help make travel easier and convenient.”Nearly 1.3 million vehicles are expected to...

Illinois Tollway customers may wonder what those vertical yellow markings are they see on concrete median barriers throughout the Tollway system. With winter rapidly approaching, now is a good time to provide an answer. Those yellow markings indicate where catch basins are located, much in the way that underground utilities such as sewers, gas and electric are marked by colored flags, stakes or paint by J.U.L.I.E., the Joint Utility Locating Information for Excavators...

The Illinois Tollway is ready for winter, but are you?When winter storms strike, the Tollway moves rapidly to clear its roads but drivers still need to be prepared to deal with snow, sleet, freezing rain and other difficult weather when they get behind the wheel.“Winter can be a challenging time for drivers but we’re committed to providing whatever equipment and staffing required to keep our roads clear and safe for our customers this winter,” said Illinois Tollway Executive Director José...

In October, the Illinois Tollway surpassed its goal to plant 58,000 new trees along its system of roadways crossing 12 counties, and planting is ongoing. The milestone tree is among new trees and shrubs being planted recently along the Veterans Memorial Tollway (I-355). “It’s exciting to be part of this effort to expand the regional tree canopy, which will greatly benefit our customers and communities for generations,” said Illinois Tollway Executive Director José Alvarez....

Balanced spending plan allocates more than $1.49 billion in annual revenue and supports more than $1.49 billion for capital programThe Illinois Tollway introduced a balanced Tentative 2022 Budget with $1.49 billion of revenue today that includes $411 million for annual maintenance and operations on the 294-mile system and provides funds to support $1.49 billion in capital spending, including funding for the 11th year of the agency’s 15-year, $14 billion...

Things just got brighter for I-PASS customers heading down to Florida: I-PASS is now accepted on all toll roads in the Sunshine State. The Florida Turnpike joins the Central Florida Expressway Authority as part of the E-ZPass Group.So, whether you’re driving down to visit a theme park in Orlando, go fishing or golfing along the Gulf coast in the Tampa/St. Petersburg area, lie on a beach in Miami or watch a rocket launch from Cape Canaveral, you can take I-PASS with you on all your...

In the eight short months since the Illinois Tollway first introduced Pay By Plate, over one million customers have leveraged the service to pay their tolls seamlessly online.In the wake of a worldwide pandemic, the Illinois Tollway responded with extensive mitigation efforts including the halt to cash toll payments.  With an urgent need to find new ways for customers to pay, the Tollway’s operations and business team accelerated the development of a new technology designed to let...

“At the end of the day,” said Illinois Tollway Executive Director José Alvarez, “these are two structures that are going to be around for decades.”The two structures Alvarez is referring to make up the new Mile Long Bridge on the Tri-State Tollway (I-294).How the bridge is being built – and the highly skilled, diverse workforce behind its construction – was the focus of the latest episode of “Built To Last,” a series of half-hour specials that runs every Sunday morning on ABC 7...

Students still have time to apply for Illinois Tollway summer internship opportunities. The paid internships – scheduled to run from June 21 through August 13 – offer students real-world, hands-on experience in the transportation industry, with guidance from dedicated mentors, as well as access to leadership and professional growth activities to help further their careers. “Our internship program was built to make sure we’re providing support for future leaders in transportation,”...

Time is running out for Illinois Tollway customers to take advantage of the savings offered by the agency’s popular toll violation relief program, which reduces all existing $20 and $50 fines on unpaid tolls to a $3 fee per toll.The violation relief program, which was launched last June as part of the Tollway’s comprehensive TOLLING 2020 reforms, is scheduled to end on June 30.Drivers already have taken advantage of the relief program to clear nearly 230,00 outstanding violation notices for...

A spear-wielding troll. Giant ants. Colorfully illuminated trees.Those are some of the sights drivers traveling along the Reagan Memorial Tollway (I-88) just west of the Veterans Memorial Tollway (I-355) have seen at The Morton Arboretum in west suburban Lisle.The Morton Arboretum ranks as one of the world’s largest, oldest and most diverse outdoor tree museums. Established in 1922 by Joy Morton, founder of the Morton Salt Co. and son of J. Sterling Morton, the founder of Arbor Day, the...

This year, the Illinois Tollway celebrates Earth Day by sharing wildflower seed packets while serving customers, while advancing key contracts that aim to fulfill its commitment to plant 58,000 trees throughout the 294-mile Tollway system. These efforts are being achieved as a part of the Tollway’s overall commitment to balancing the environmental impacts of its roadway projects through the implementation of a comprehensive landscaping master plan. The Illinois Tollway’s landscaping...

The Illinois Tollway Board of Directors today approved a balanced 2021 Budget with $1.42 billion in revenue allocated to fund maintenance and operations, debt service transfers and capital investments for the 294-mile system. The 2021 Budget will allow the Tollway to commit $1.53 billion in capital spending, including funding for the 10th year of the agency’s 15-year, $14 billion Move Illinois capital program. “This balanced budget recognizes the economic challenges that are continuing with...

The Illinois Tollway is preparing to open the new northbound Mile Long Bridge to traffic next week, marking the halfway point in the $500 million construction project to deliver the new bridge and a major milestone for the Central Tri-State Tollway (I-294) Project. "The Mile Long Bridge is an extraordinary project, and completion of the new northbound structure stands out due to the hard work and perseverance of the many engineering and construction firms continuing to move forward during...

The Illinois Tollway today announced that Samantha Cervantes, a sophomore at Thornton Fractional North High School, Calumet City, is the grand prize winner of the 2021 Illinois Tollway Map Cover Art Contest highlighting “Everyday Heroes” who are making a positive impact on people’s lives through the COVID-19 pandemic.  “Samantha’s winning artwork will serve as a reminder that our world is in good hands with everyday heroes like nurses, firefighters and roadway workers working day and...

To help young drivers learn to stay safely in their cars if they become stranded on a high speed roadway, the Illinois Tollway and Illinois State Police traveled to the Chicagoland Speedway to demonstrate how much ground a fast-moving vehicle covers and how long it takes to stop.   Video footage shot at the Speedway shows an Illinois State Police SUV approaching at 70 mph—the speed limit on most of the Tollway system—and then abruptly braking, but still traveling for several hundred feet...

In recognition of a unique partnership between the Illinois Tollway and Pace Suburban Bus, the American Public Transportation Association awarded the partnership its 2020 Innovation Award. The Tollway and Pace worked together to expand transit, deliver roadway improvements and improve overall mobility on the Jane Addams Memorial Tollway (I-90). “The partnership between the Illinois Tollway and Pace serves as a great example of what can be accomplished when transportation and transit...

Construction crews completed the 32nd concrete pour Friday, October 2, for the new 4,800-foot-long, five-lane northbound Mile Long Bridge on the Central Tri-State Tollway (I-294). In total, nearly 16,000 cubic yards of concrete was needed for the bridge deck and walls, an amount equal to about 1,760 fully-loaded concrete-mixing trucks. Along with the concrete, the bridge deck contains about 5.2 million pounds of stainless steel rebar, which are being used here because it resists corrosion...

The International Bridge, Tunnel and Turnpike Association (IBTTA) today announced the seven winners of its prestigious 2020 Toll Excellence Awards  acknowledging industry leaders implementing transportation projects worldwide focusing on environmental sustainability, advancement of emerging technologies, easing mobility and alleviating congestion.    “This year’s Toll Excellence Award winners have continued to set the bar higher for the transportation industry throughout the...

It’s a nightmare that can confront any driver: Your car is damaged in a crash or stalls, leaving you stranded in traffic on a high speed roadway.     A driver’s first instinct might be to step out of the stopped car and dodge oncoming vehicles to head for the shoulder or median. But trying to cross lanes of high-speed traffic on foot only makes a bad situation worse, Illinois State Police and Illinois Tollway officials said. Instead, if your car can’t be moved out of traffic,...

The COVID-19 crisis is forcing businesses and public agencies to rethink nearly everything, from the way we provide services to the way we engage customers.   The Illinois Tollway has a history of proactively engaging local communities, residents and customers by clearly and effectively communicating the impacts, changes and benefits of roadway and mitigation projects to the public. That’s why the Illinois Tollway has launched a new Virtual Central Tri-State Tollway (I-294) Project...

Illinois Tollway Chief Planning Officer Rocco Zucchero has not only achieved great success in his 20-year career at the agency, but he has also helped advance the careers of a strong team of women along the way. Tollway Planning Department staff includes several women assigned to some of the Tollway’s largest projects, including the Central Tri-State Tollway (I-294) Project and the I-490 Tollway Project. Other women are in charge of coordinating with railroads and communities on interchanges...

Illinois Tollway employees and our customers gave St. Nick a run for his money this holiday season, swooping in to drop off a record number of toys, games, dolls and bikes at Tollway headquarters for the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots program. When the toys were tallied, the Tollway had collected 1,423 gifts that will be distributed to less fortunate children in the Chicago area to help put smiles on their faces on Christmas day. Last year, the Toys for Tots program collected about...

Winter arrived early this year with a Halloween snowstorm, but the Illinois Tollway was ready to roll, deploying all of its 196 snowplows and opening its Snow Operations Center to clear roads and keep traffic moving.   “We’re committed to serving our customers by rapidly clearing snow and ice from our roads so drivers can continue to travel safely and by quickly assisting any customers whose vehicles become disabled along our system,” said Illinois Tollway Executive Director José...

Pink will be the color of the day at the Illinois Tollway on October 25 as staff show their support for Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Many employees will be wearing pink clothing to work as part of the Tollway’s efforts to increase awareness and provide more information about breast cancer. Working with the American Cancer Society and Advocate Health, the Tollway will offer health consultations and information sessions about breast cancer to employees, with representatives from those...

The Illinois Tollway is operating around-the-clock Hot Weather Patrols to more quickly assist customers stranded along its roads during the dangerously high temperatures and humidity expected to continue into the weekend. The Tollway typically operates Hot Weather Patrols to provide additional aid to customers whenever temperatures or heat indexes indicate conditions could be hazardous for stranded drivers.  The 24-hour patrols search for drivers stranded in disabled vehicles and...

As temperatures drop dangerously low, the Illinois Tollway is opening the doors of its six oases to everyone who needs a place to warm up. The oases are open around the clock and most have pavilions that offer food, beverage and retail options. All oases have 7-Eleven stores and fuel stations where drivers can top off their tanks or check their vehicles. Drivers using the Tri-State Tollway (I-94/I-294/I-80) can stop at any of four oases: Lake Forest, O’Hare, Hinsdale and...

The Illinois Tollway staff was devastated this weekend when Illinois State Police District 15 Trooper Christopher Lambert was struck by a vehicle while assisting with a three-vehicle crash on the Tri-State Tollway (I-294). ISP District 15 is the dedicated state police unit assigned to patrol the 294-miles of the Illinois Tollway system, and each and every day they risk their lives to keep our customers safe. Trooper Lambert was on his way home when he responded to the crash, positioned his...