Illinois Tollway

The Illinois Tollway turned on its latest SmartRoad on the northern section of the Central Tri-State Tollway (I-294) between Wolf Road and Balmoral Avenue in conjunction with the opening of the new fifth lane for northbound traffic. Put best by our Executive Director Cassaundra Rouse at the SmartRoad grand opening, "The Tollway has become an information superhighway with technology built into our roadways so we can make traveling safer and more efficient for Tollway customers." Learn more about our SmartRoad and the Central Tri-State Tollway Project here: https://bit.ly/4eNcHI4

We are so proud to share that Marlene Vick, Acting Chief of the Department of Diversity and Strategic Development at the Illinois Tollway has received the Excellence in Public Administration Award from the USMCA - U.S. Minority Contractors Association at their 33rd annual Millennium Builders Awards banquet. Marlene has been a constant advocate for small, diverse, and veteran-owned businesses and individuals seeking opportunities in the construction industry. Her work on several programs including the Illinois Tollway's Technical Assistance Program and Earned Credit Program has allowed her to make a huge difference in our communities and projects and is a testament to her positive leadership. Congratulations again to Marlene Vick on this incredible honor! Read more here: https://bit.ly/4fxMK01

It's that time of year, folks. With the winter weather just around the corner, The Illinois Tollway, Illinois Department of Transportation, and Illinois State Police join forces for their annual snow and ice safety awareness events at Chicago and Rockford maintenance facilities. We are committed to providing the safest traveling conditions for our road users during the winter and offer emergency support with our H.E.L.P. trucks when needed. We can all benefit from keeping the following in mind this winter: ?? Slow down ?? Increase your distance ?? Watch for black ice ?? Give the plows room ?? Stay in your car ?? Call *999 for emergency roadside assistance on the Illinois Tollway

Congratulations to Illinois Tollway Chief of Diversity and Strategic Development Marlene Vick for being named among the “2024 Notable Latino Leaders” by Crain's Chicago Business. As a steadfast and passionate champion for creating economic opportunities for small, diverse and veteran-owned businesses, as well as historically underrepresented individuals, Marlene has made a tremendous impact at the Illinois Tollway. In her current role, she is responsible for creating and executing a comprehensive diversity program on behalf of the Illinois Tollway to ensure inclusion and equal opportunity for all. Read more here: https://bit.ly/4fy9Aod

Congratulations to Primera Engineers on another successful Forward Focused: People, Places, and Possibilities event! As an agency with a focus on promoting STEM careers and opportunities for engineers, the Illinois Tollway was proud to have participated in this event. Featuring a panel of Architecture, Engineering, and Construction industry professionals, including Illinois Tollway Executive Director Cassaundra Rouse, this event provided greater insight into the importance of STEM education, resources, and mentorship, and the role it plays in shaping a more innovative, transformative future.

The Illinois Tollway celebrates the 10-year anniversary of National Apprenticeship Week and the countless opportunities apprenticeship programs have provided to individuals within our communities. Quentin W. is a third year apprentice with FH Paschen. Quentin and FH Paschen connected through the ConstructionWorks program, powered by the Illinois Tollway. The Partnership and its network are proud to foster apprenticeship programs like this one, that lead regional residents to careers and provide employers with the talented teams the need! #NAW2024 #DecadeOfNAW #ApprenticeshipUSA

Executive Director Cassaundra Rouse was proud to convene the fifth and final meeting of the Stakeholder Advisory Team—a group of 40+ multidisciplinary leaders from across the region. Over the past several months, this Team has worked diligently in collaboration with the Illinois Tollway to identify priorities and develop recommendations for the agency’s next capital plan that implements the guiding principles of innovation, diversity and inclusion, sustainability and equitable economic development. Thank you to all the SAT members and their organizations for lending their expertise and input to this vital process, and for their shared commitment to our region’s transportation infrastructure and prosperity. Visit illinoistollway.com/future for the latest updates on our capital planning process and to make your voice heard.

This week The 7th University, LLC brought students from Rich Township High School District 227, Academy of Engineering and Technology Program to our M1 maintenance facility to get a hands-on view of Tollway operations. Not only did their visit expose them to various construction & engineering paths, but also to internship opportunities available to them as they prepare for their post-secondary educational goals and vocational aspirations. It is so refreshing for us to be able to engage with future generations of our communities, hear their perspectives, and show them the impact our business has on the everyday lives of people in our communities. Thank you to the students for spending your day with us. We hope you enjoyed your visit!

Join us this Veterans Day in honoring all those who have served our country past and present. We thank you for your courage, sacrifice, and selfless dedication. #ThankYouVeterans

Join us this November as we celebrate National American Indian and Alaska Native Heritage Month. Let us take time this month to honor and celebrate the diverse traditions, rich histories, and invaluable contributions of American Indian and Alaska Native communities. The impact of these cultures is woven into the fabric of our shared history. #IndigenousHeritage