SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — Gov. JB Pritzker announced a $41 billion multi-year plan for transportation projects Friday afternoon. WAND News is digging into how much of that money will go towards transit, rail, aviation and waterways.
Illinois has made historic investments in transportation projects since Rebuild Illinois was launched in 2019. While the governor plans to spend over $29 billion on roads and bridges over the next six years, there is also nearly $8 billion for transit projects.
“These are real tangible projects that will have a direct impact on the strength of our economy and the quality of life for our residents,” Pritzker said.
The Champaign-Urbana Mass Transit District will receive $7 million for hybrid bus replacement. Sangamon County is expecting $2.9 million for a bus barn and office.
IDOT has earmarked $2.5 billion for freight and passenger rail as well.
“That was the promise of the governor’s capital program when it launched 5 years ago, a sustained commitment to investing in infrastructure over time and across all modes of transportation,” said Illinois Transportation Secretary Omer Osman.
$25.2 million is set aside for the 10th Street corridor consolidation of passenger and freight rail in Springfield.
Meanwhile, Illinois will use $1.57 billion to enhance airports.
Willard Airport in Savoy will receive $5.3 million to build an aircraft rescue and fire fighting building. The Champaign County Airport will also receive $1.5 million to improve the terminal building and $277,000 to install a runway visual guidance system.
“These investments will also help to attract more businesses and skilled talent to our state, creating new job opportunities and contributing to the growth of our economy,” said Kevin Artl, President of the American Council of Engineering Companies of Illinois. “They will ensure that Illinois products, both manufactured and agricultural, can efficiently and quickly get to markets across the globe.”
The Abraham Lincoln Capital Airport is expected to receive $1.2 million to rehabilitate the apron air carrier. The Springfield airport will also receive $167,000 to improve a runway next year.
WAND News also found the Decatur Airport will receive $350,000 to replace signs for the runway.
The Pritzker administration earmarked $160 million to enhance ports and waterways over the next six years as well.
You can find all of the projects receiving funding through the IDOT multi-year plan by clicking here.
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