Illinois Tollway Proposes $26.5 Billion Plan, Hearings Scheduled in DeKalb and Rochelle

DOWNERS GROVE — The Illinois Tollway has unveiled a proposed 15 year, $26.5 billion capital program that would fund road improvements, maintenance projects and new construction across its system through 2042. The plan includes a $3.53 billion investment in the Reagan Memorial Tollway, or I 88, with projects that include reconstructing the roadway from Illinois Route 56 to Illinois Route 251, adding a new access point on the western portion of I 88 and widening key segments. The proposal also includes toll increases beginning Jan. 1, 2027, marking the first increase for passenger vehicles since 2012. Public hearings are scheduled from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. July 20 at Northern Illinois University in DeKalb and from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. July 23 at Luna Rochelle in Rochelle. Officials said the program is intended to improve traffic flow, support economic growth and maintain the long term reliability of the tollway system.