Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker announced the second of six $250 million grants to counties, municipalities and townships for local transportation needs on Thursday.
The grants, made possible by the Rebuild Illinois Capital plan, would be used to ensure continued investment into the state’s transportation systems and to help maintain safe and reliable infrastructure, the governor said.
“For too long, Illinois has relied on legacy infrastructure investments without tending to them properly to maintain our status as a transportation hub for the nation. Rather than build on our storied history and strong foundation, our critical infrastructure has been allowed to deteriorate,” said Gov. Pritzker. “Thanks to dedicated funding in the bipartisan Rebuild Illinois plan, we’re investing in our roads and bridges and cementing our leadership position as a global transportation powerhouse.”
The grants are part of $1.5 billion being distributed over three years to projects across the state. The projects range from road and bridge improvements, traffic signal upgrades, new storm sewers, bike paths, and sidewalk replacements, among other things.
“In Illinois, we don’t have just state or local roads and bridges, but one system of transportation that stretches across all modes and involves multiple partners working together,” said Acting Illinois Department of Transportation Secretary Omer Osman. “This funding through Rebuild Illinois means our cities, neighborhoods and rural areas have the resources they need during this uncertain time, but also enhances quality of life, encourages additional investment and improves safety for years to come.”
Funding for the program comes from the state’s motor fuel tax formula, which resulted in an additional $860 million in the past fiscal year alone.