Under the leadership of Gov. JB Pritzker, the Illinois Department of Transportation continued to revitalize and modernize transportation and mobility across the state in 2025. Made possible by the governor’s historic, bipartisan Rebuild Illinois capital programme, projects transformed highways, transit, railroads, airports, waterways and active transportation everywhere Illinois residents call home, creating safer and more reliable travel options while boosting economic prospect for generations to come.

“From launching the largest infrastructure program in state history to spearheading transformational projects, Illinois is making landmark investments in our present and future – creating good-paying jobs and paving the way toward an Illinois that is built to last,” said Gov. Pritzker. “Whether it’s on a repaved road,over a repaired bridge,or in a brand-new bike lane,IDOT is working to get you where you’re going smoothly and safely while supporting community revitalization in every corner of the state.”

Passed in 2019, Rebuild Illinois is investing $45 billion in the state’s aging infrastructure, creating jobs and building stronger communities. Accomplishments through Year Six include almost $20.8 billion of improvements statewide to 21,309 lane miles of highway, 815 bridges and 1,181 additional safety improvements, ranging from routine maintenance projects and minor resurfacings to extensive interstate and bridge reconstructions.

A 2025 highlight was the October release of the largest multi-year construction program in state history: $50.6 billion over six years, eclipsing the previous record of $41.4 billion in 2024. Covering fiscal years 2026 to 2031, the multi-year program is both complete and multimodal, touching every Illinois county.

“The past year was another landmark one for investing in people and communities up and down Illinois,” said Illinois Transportation Secretary Gia Biagi. “The projects and initiatives today are making our state a better place to raise a family, build a career and do business for tomorrow.”

Highways and bridges

The $1.3 billion Interstate 80 project in Will County, a Rebuild Illinois cornerstone, reached major milestones in 2025. Work is completed on the section from Ridge Road in Minooka to the DuPage River bridge. Also, traffic was shifted to new pavement between U.S. 30 and Rowell Avenue as well as from Wheeler Avenue to the DuPage River. Progress also was made in rebuilding the Larkin Avenue (Illinois 7) and Briggs Street interchanges.

By the end of 2026,the sections from Ridge Road to Wheeler Avenue and from Richards Street to U.S. 30 will wrap up,with three lanes open in e

illinois on the Move: IDOT Projects Enhance Transportation and Recreation

The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) is making significant strides in improving both roadways and recreational trails across the state. Recent projects demonstrate a commitment to efficiency,safety,and community enhancement.

Highway Rehabilitation & Innovative approaches

IDOT recently completed a 10-mile section of the I-57 corridor in southern Illinois. Work continues on the next segments: 8 miles between Marion and I-24 and nearly 17 miles in the Rend Lake area.

After successfully shutting down a section of I-255 from I-55/70 to I-64 in the Metro East in early 2020 for a rehabilitation project, IDOT went for an encore last spring.I-255 was closed between I-64 and Illinois 15 for a $65.3 million project that was completed six weeks ahead of schedule. The project also saved $10 million and most importantly, kept workers safe.

The State of Trails

The 15-mile Lincoln Trail between Pana and Taylorville is complete after the replacement of an old railroad bridge that was shut down in 2015 because of safety concerns. Construction was completed in April and was funded in part by an Illinois Transportation Enhancement Program grant administered by IDOT.

The city of Dixon began Project ROCK (revitalizing Opportunities for the Community and Kids) in April. The $14 million project, led by Dixon with assistance from IDOT, is the next phase of pedestrian paths through this city of more than 15,000 and will expand recreation and mobility options for residents and visitors.An $11.9 million federal Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity grant funded much of the project.

Construction is underway on a 4.5-mile extension of the Route 66 Trail in McLean County. Made possible by a $3.2 million grant through ITEP, the project will extend the trail 4.5 miles from mclean to Funks Grove and provide a new link to Bloomington-Normal’s Constitution Trail.

The new 2.4-mile Saluki Greenway in Carbondale opened in november to provide access to shopping, medical care and recreation. Supported through ITEP, the project includes a fully separated walking and biking route, painted crosswalks and improved lighting.

Illinois DOT Invests in Trails, Solar Energy, and EV Infrastructure

The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) is actively pursuing several initiatives focused on sustainability and improved transportation infrastructure across the state. These projects demonstrate a commitment to environmental responsibility, modernizing facilities, and preparing for the future of electric vehicles.

Expanding Regional Trails

IDOT recently allocated $1.9 million to enhance the regional path and trail system. This investment aims to close gaps in existing networks, providing more opportunities for recreational use and option transportation options. These trails promote healthy lifestyles and reduce reliance on vehicle travel for short distances.

Harnessing Solar Power

Construction is underway on a new solar energy site in Lebanon, Illinois, designed to power an adjacent IDOT storage facility along I-64. This $617,700 project is a pilot program to identify underutilized IDOT property suitable for alternative energy generation. The goal is to reduce carbon emissions and achieve long-term cost savings for taxpayers. this initiative showcases IDOT’s dedication to clean energy solutions.

Boosting Electric Vehicle Infrastructure

In December, IDOT announced the third funding opportunity through the Illinois National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Program. Approximately $65.6 million will be allocated for the construction of new electric vehicle (EV) charging stations throughout Illinois. This builds upon previous rounds of funding, which have already awarded grants for 62 charging stations along Illinois interstates.Governor JB Pritzker aims to have 1 million electric vehicles on Illinois roads by 2030,and this program is crucial to achieving that goal.

Environmental Stewardship in Cook and Collar Counties

IDOT is prioritizing environmental protection in Cook and the surrounding collar counties through various initiatives. These efforts demonstrate a commitment to responsible land management and minimizing the environmental impact of transportation projects.

Key Takeaways

• IDOT is investing $1.9 million to expand regional trails.
• A $617,700 solar energy project will power an IDOT facility and reduce carbon emissions.
• $65.6 million in funding is available for new EV charging stations across Illinois.
• IDOT is focused on environmental stewardship in the Chicago metropolitan area.