“The business of the Illinois Tollway is moving goods and services that support our economy, as well as providing for safe and efficient travel for our customers,” says Illinois Tollway executive director Greg Bedalov. “Our 2017 Tentative Budget stays true to this mission by putting more than 75 percent of the revenues we collect into strategic investments in infrastructure, state-of-the-art technology and access for the communities we serve.”
The Move Illinois projects include $374.5 million for continued work on the new Illinois Route 390 Tollway and planning for the new Interstate 490 Tollway. The Jane Addams Memorial Tollway (I-90) is also slated for $163.5 million to add SmartRoad technology as well as completion of interchange and local road improvements.
For the Central Tri-State Tollway (I-294), $56.5 million is proposed for planning and reconstruction design, and $295 million has been budgeted for systemwide repairs.
The 2017 Tentative Budget also includes: $65.3 million for technology implementation and maintenance to support I-PASS account management and help ensure accuracy of toll violations; $14.7 million to support the development and implementation of an enterprise resource planning system; $2.4 million to further the agency’s commitment to fostering access for diverse individuals and companies to work on Tollway contracts.
The Illinois Tollway says more than 75 percent of revenue in the tentative budget is allocated to support infrastructure. This includes $639 million for capital investments and $336 million for maintenance and operations, representing a $14 million increase compared to the 2016 budget.
“The Tollway is committed to investing in Illinois to serve the needs our 1.6 million daily customers and better the regional transportation network,” says Tollway Board Chairman Bob Schillerstrom. “This is a responsible budget that holds the line on spending and reduces employee headcount while maximizing the Tollway’s resources.”
The 2017 Tentative Budget is available for review here.
