Tollway Authority approves $11M repairs on Jane Addams Memorial Tollway I-90

In a bustling meeting room filled with the hum of anticipation, the Illinois Tollway Engineering, Planning & Development Oversight Committee convened on April 17, 2025, to discuss significant advancements in infrastructure projects across the state. The atmosphere was charged with a sense of urgency and purpose as committee members reviewed a series of construction contract awards aimed at enhancing the safety and efficiency of Illinois roadways.

The meeting highlighted the approval of multiple contracts, primarily focused on the Jane Addams Memorial Tollway (I-90) and the Central Tri-State Tollway Corridor. The first two contracts awarded were for critical repairs on the western section of I-90, part of a broader 2025 program designed to address pavement and bridge maintenance. These projects are not just about immediate repairs; they reflect a strategic commitment to preventative maintenance, aimed at avoiding more costly repairs in the future.

The first contract, awarded to F.H. Passion, S.N. Nielsen and Associates, will see over $11 million dedicated to pavement and structural rehabilitation between East Riverside Boulevard and Garden Prairie Road. The competitive bidding process yielded favorable results, with the low bid coming in below estimates and a commitment to exceed diversity and veteran participation goals. Similarly, Plodey Construction secured the second contract for just over $11 million for work immediately east of the first location, also promising to meet diversity goals.

As the meeting progressed, the committee turned its attention to facility improvements at key maintenance sites, including the central warehouse and sign shop in Downers Grove. The awarded contract, valued at over $9 million, will enhance these facilities with new roofing, HVAC systems, and fire safety measures, further demonstrating the Tollway Authority's commitment to maintaining its infrastructure.

The discussion then shifted to the Central Tri-State Tollway Corridor, where two change orders were proposed for complex, multi-year contracts valued at over $450 million. These projects, constrained by existing infrastructure such as ComEd transmission towers and local roadways, have made significant progress, with over half of the work now complete. The committee emphasized the importance of these projects in alleviating congestion and supporting economic activity, as the corridor serves over 300,000 vehicles daily, including a substantial percentage of truck traffic.

Throughout the meeting, committee members expressed their appreciation for the contractors' efforts in managing traffic safely amid ongoing construction. The collaborative approach taken by the Tollway Authority and its contractors was praised, highlighting the importance of maintaining safety while advancing critical infrastructure projects.

As the meeting concluded, the committee left with a renewed sense of purpose, committed to pushing forward with these vital projects that promise to enhance the safety and efficiency of Illinois roadways, ultimately benefiting the state's economy and its residents. The road ahead may be challenging, but with strategic planning and dedicated partnerships, the future of Illinois transportation looks promising.