The Illinois Department of Transportation recently awarded through the Illinois Transportation Enhancement Program $105.97 million to projects that expand travel options and enhance the quality of life in communities.
The department received 270 applications and selected 99. Projects were evaluated on multiple criteria, including serving areas with higher needs, public support, and readiness and ability to connect to transportation networks.
Projects include streetscape beautification, trails, and biking and walking paths. Large grants include the Clarence Darrow Pedestrian Bridge Reconstruction in Chicago, $2 million; the Stevens Creek Bikeway in Decatur, $2 million; the Marion Community Unit School District #2’s Crab Orchard Greenway, $2 million; Safe Routes to School in Alton, $1.3 million; and South Schuyler bike and pedestrian road improvements in Kankakee, $1.3 million.
Funding for this award cycle was a record high because of the passage of Rebuild Illinois.
“Our Rebuild Illinois capital plan is improving the day-to-day lives of our residents, which is why I’m proud to announce the largest investment in quality-of-life projects in Illinois history,” Gov. JB Pritzker said. “From safer pedestrian paths to new bike lanes and trail systems to beautification projects, the Illinois Transportation Enhancement Program will deliver real value to nearly 100 communities across the state, with a special focus on equity.”