Joliet Interstate Improvements Mean Safety and Economic Benefits Ahead

Joliet Mayor Bob O’Dekirk announced that the recently released Rebuild Illinois Highway Improvement Program includes the new interchange at I-55 and IL 59, as well as reconstruction and widening of US Rt. 52 linking Joliet and Shorewood. The project, also known as the I-55 at IL 59 Access Project will see improvements to several access points from I-55 and I-80, capacity and intersection improvements to state and local roads, and dramatically enhanced east-west connectivity.

The roadway construction projects will improve safety and congestion along the I-55/I-80 corridor, an area having among the highest road accident rates in the state of Illinois, as well as spur new economic growth for the entire Will County area, including the development of Rock Run Crossings, a super-regional mixed-use development, along with additional spin-off growth created by the project, putting thousands to work, including union and full-time employment.

“This is a big win for Joliet, Will County and the greater region,” stated Mayor O’Dekirk. “This commitment to roadway improvements will greatly enhance driver safety and traffic system reliability, not to mention it leverages millions of dollars in local and private investment to impact the economic vitality of this area,” stated O’Dekirk.