The Illinois State Toll Highway Authority has introduced a massive $26.5 billion capital program named “Driving Connections.” Spanning 15 years, this initiative allocates over $14.6 billion to the reconstruction and rehabilitation of toll roads. It also dedicates nearly $3.36 billion for interchange upgrades and approximately $880 million for road widening, according to a preliminary analysis.
Compared to the previous $15 billion Move Illinois plan, which included projects like building the I-490 toll road on O’Hare’s west side and constructing an interchange at I-57 and the Tri-State, the 2026 project list focuses on necessary improvements. DePaul University Professor Joseph Schwieterman commented on the lack of ‘wow factor’ but emphasized the critical need for these projects, especially during peak tollway usage.
Funding for these projects will partly come from toll rate hikes averaging 45 cents for I-Pass customers in passenger vehicles. These increases are expected to cover construction costs and will include inflation-based adjustments every other year starting in 2029, pending board approval.
Major Projects
A significant project involves $3.1 billion allocated for interchange improvements at I-88 and I-355. To alleviate congestion in the Downers Grove area, additional lanes will be added to northbound and southbound I-355, along with ramp improvements. Another effort will reconfigure the Tri-State interchange with Irving Park Road in Schiller Park, creating a full interchange at a cost of $132 million.
Executive Director Cassaundra Rouse highlighted the importance of investing in interchanges and technology that enhance safety. The plan also aims to rehabilitate aging bridges.
Concerns and Studies
Not all feedback has been positive. Former Illinois Tollway Director and state Sen. Bill Morris expressed his skepticism, indicating that the toll increase might be excessive. He suggested some proposed projects are more maintenance than capital improvements in the traditional sense.
The agency will invest millions in future improvements, including a $240 million study on reducing gridlock at the I-294 and I-90 interchange in Rosemont and a $34 million study addressing congestion at the I-90/I-290/Route 53 nexus.
Collaborations and Other Initiatives
Driving Connections also involves collaboration with the Chicago Department of Aviation (CDA). A joint venture near the future Route 390 and I-490 interchange next to O’Hare will include a facility for airline employee parking and screening.
The Illinois Tollway has valued this project at $412 million, including rehabilitating original sections of Route 390. Further details on the project’s scope and timing will be released later, according to CDA Communications Director Kevin Bargnes.
Other Significant Construction Projects
Veterans Memorial Tollway (I-355)
- Resurfacing between Spring Creek Toll Plaza and I-55: $650 million
- Widening between Roosevelt Road and North Avenue in Lombard: $197 million
Reagan Memorial Tollway (I-88)
- Resurfacing and rehab between Aurora Toll Plaza and Washington Street: $391 million
- Widening between Aurora Toll Plaza and Route 59: $390 million
Jane Addams Tollway (I-90)
- Resurfacing and rehab between Elgin Toll Plaza and Kennedy Expressway: $664 million
- Resurfacing and pavement upgrades between Kishwaukee River and Elgin Toll Plaza: $823 million
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