WILL COUNTY – State Senators Meg Loughran Cappel and Rachel Ventura celebrated the governor’s announcement that a $93.5 million project to reconstruct a new interchange at Interstate 55 and Illinois 59 is nearing completion. Set to open for traffic in the coming months, the project represents the fruits of another major investment in Will County made possible by the historic, bipartisan Rebuild Illinois capital program.

"Will County is growing, and with that growth, it demands a skilled labor force capable of not just meeting but exceeding the challenges of a dynamic marketplace," said Loughran Cappel (D-Shorewood). "As we celebrate the I-55 at Illinois 59 Access Project, we have to acknowledge the work Will County has done to be a transportation hub in Illinois while bringing good-paying jobs with good benefits for local people and companies to our community."

Prior to rebuilding the interchange, only northbound I-55 could exit to northbound Illinois 59 and from southbound Illinois 59 to southbound I-55. With the ramps opening, both directions of I-55 can access both directions of Illinois 59 and vice versa.

"When we make investments in our transportation systems and infrastructure, we are also investing in bettering the lives of families, students, seniors and individuals from all walks of life," said Ventura (D-Joliet). "I am proud to see our state recognize the importance of this area's potential and will continue to advocate for more improvements in the future."

Because of the Illinois Senate Democrats’ commitment to I-55, the region is anticipated to benefit through planned developments in the area, including the mixed-used RockRun Collection that is projected to account for $1.4 billion in economic impact and produce $53 million in state and local tax revenue. The annual benefits once the improvements are finished are estimated at $181 million in economic impact and $72 million in state and local tax revenue.

While the work zone remains in place until construction wraps up, the public should continue to anticipate delays and allow extra time for trips through this area. Drivers are urged to pay close attention to flaggers and signs in the work zones, obey the posted speed limits and remain alert for workers and equipment.

The interchange is part of the Illinois Department of Transportation's overall I-55 at Illinois 59 Access Project, fueled by Rebuild Illinois. Passed in 2019, the historic capital program is investing more than $33 billion over six years into the statewide transportation system, creating jobs and promoting economic growth. For more information about Rebuild Illinois, visit IDOT’s website.