(WAND) - Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Transportation announced on Wednesday that $139.2 million will be allocated through the Illinois Transportation Enhancement Program.
This funding aims to improve local travel options and enhance the quality of life in communities throughout the state.
“The Illinois Transportation Enhancement Program is a crucial part of Rebuild Illinois, helping make travel safer and more accessible in the communities that need it most,” said Gov. Pritzker.“Today, I’m proud to announce the largest investment in the program’s history, with more than $139 million going toward bike lanes, sidewalks, trails and other local improvements. This is just one part of the state’s larger effort to reverse decades of disinvestment and create more connected communities.”
66 projects were approved through ITEP including bike and pedestrian paths and trails, streetscape beautification and other projects designed to encourage safe travel across various modes of transportation at the local level.
During the competitive call for projects, Rebuild Illinois allocated an all-time high in funding, with approximately 74% directed towards improvements in communities demonstrating significant financial need.
“Under the leadership of Gov. Pritzker, IDOT is committed to working with communities to improve local mobility options while strengthening the state’s overall transportation network,” said Acting Illinois Transportation Secretary Gia Biagi. “We’re proud to support these efforts by our local partners that create new opportunities to connect people with the important places in their lives.”
Other projects receiving funding:
- Alsip – Hazelgreen and various sidewalk improvements, $3 million
- Belleville – West Belleville bike trail, $3 million
- Champaign – Kirby Avenue complete street project, $3 million
- Chicago – Ogden Avenue bike lanes and pedestrian improvements, $3 million
- Chicago Heights – McEldowney Park underpass, $277,990
- Elgin – Kimball Street bridge, Fox River Trail underpass, $3 million
- Forest Preserve District of Will County – DuPage River Greenway Trail, $2.9 million
- Midlothian – Natalie Creek Trail, $3 million
- Pittsfield – Downtown reconstruction, $1.6 million
- St. Clair County Transit District – Bunkum Road Trail, $3 million
- Summit – 74th Avenue pedestrian bridge, $2.4 million
Click here for a complete list of recipients.
Projects were awarded based on readiness, connectivity to transportation networks, public support, and their ability to provide public benefits.
Consideration was also given to projects in areas with higher needs. In the latest funding cycle, 233 applications were received for projects totaling approximately $383 million. The next call for projects is scheduled for 2026.
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